Tech giant Google has been forced to alert millions of users of Android devices to delete a number of apps to safeguard personal information.
McAfee Mobile Security has discovered a total of 36 apps that have now been banned on Android devices. The apps are disguised as regular apps to fool people but are littered with malware.
It is thought this malware will attempt to steal users’ bank details and more personal information, so Android users reading this article should exercise caution and remove any apps that are listed.
Read on to discover how the apps work, how you can protect your phone, and the names of the apps and domain names to delete or avoid.
How the malware works – clandestine work stealing information
Some of the apps had ten million or more downloads, which shows how widespread this malware actually is, and the danger it poses.
Experts who detected the virus explained how the virus is able to access phone software as soon as the app is downloaded to the mobile device. It “performs tasks” without the owner, possibly you, knowing anything about it.
Furthermore, those using the malware, once they have installed it within the phone, would be able to track WiFi history and Bluetooth devices and possibly know where you have been.
McAfee reaction – what the security experts have to say
McAfee stated, “The research team has found more than 60 applicants, containing this third-party malicious library, with more than 100 million downloads.
“Google has reportedly notified the developers that their apps are in violation of Google Play policies and fixes are needed to reach compliance.
“Some apps were removed from Google Play while others were updated by the official developers”. All Android users have been urged to delete the apps McAfee have listed, but it is believed the malware was particularly targeting apps in South Korea.
The full apps and what to do going forward – taking measures to protect yourself
Google has issued a warning, stating all users should never turn off the setting ‘Google Play Protect’ on their Android phone. This is on your phone to help keep them safe from malicious apps. This is still useful even if you are downloading apps outside of Google Play.
Google stated, “Even if you download an app outside of Google Play, Google Play Protect checks the installation and can warn you about a harmful or malicious app. Play Protect also scans all the apps on your device every day for harmful ones, even if you’re offline”.
The list of apps and domains can be found here on McAfee’s website. Some of the domain names include the following; bhuroid.com, visceun.com, openwor.com, and treffaas.com. Make sure to read the McAfee list in detail and protect your Android from any of its harmful malware.
