Apps with malware have been infiltrating Google Play, and it still does now. Android apps with malware and adware have been found by Dr. Web antivirus, and as reports say, it leads to phishing attacks as well. Collectively, these new apps have amassed over two million downloads, which leads to a user's phone experience degrading.
What Are the Apps?
At the time of writing, TubeBox, one of the malware apps, is still on Google Play. Strikingly, it has a rating of 4.2 stars and over a million downloads. The app claims to provide its users with monetary rewards for watching videos and ads within the app. However, they fail to do so, according to Bleeping Computer.
When a user tries to redeem the rewards, the app will show errors preventing the user from cashing out. There are some who complete the withdrawal process, yet they do not receive the monetary compensation either way. The scheme makes the users watch more ads, all while the revenue goes to the developers.
The other apps found in October 2022 have already been taken down. Although they might make another appearance with a different name, so it's best to be wary of the developers behind the infected apps. These are the apps along with their developers which collectively, had 1.1 million downloads:
Bluetooth device auto connect (bt autoconnect group)
Bluetooth & Wi-Fi & USB driver (simple things for everyone)
Volume, Music Equalizer (bt autoconenct group)
Fast Cleaner & Cooling Master (Hippo VPN LLC)
Reports say that the Fast Cleaner & Cooling Master, though having a small number of downloads, could use the device as a proxy server. The threat actors would use the infected device to channel traffic, urging more users to download malware apps.
There have also been other apps that make it appear like they have connections with Russian banks, as well as investment groups. These apps conduct loan scams, with the promise of profits when users invest. Once users provide details, their personal information will be collected.
How Do I Avoid These Apps?
When you're downloading apps whether it's the App Store or Google Play, check the reviews first. Some people will have words when they experience poor service, and will certainly tell the world through the reviews. Even if they leave a higher rating, they sometimes add the flaws of the app through their comments.
You should also update your operating system as much as you can. Updates come with fixes, and these patches are created based on more recent malware, granting you protection from them. Yes, it's easier to put off updates since you won't be able to use your phone while it'd processed, but this will save you from malware in the long run.
You should also avoid clicking on suspicious links, emails, or text, according to Kaspersky. This is just another method where hackers can implant malware on your phone. This could also appear in apps in the form of ads, especially if the app is primed for adware. Avoid clicking on suspicious ads or links as much as you can.
