Smartphones are an integral part of modern life, but their use can pose significant risks to digital security. Cybersecurity experts have warned of apps that, while seemingly harmless, can infect mobile devices with dangerous viruses.
Identifying these threats is a growing challenge as cybercriminals use sophisticated techniques to trick users. Recently, new malware has been discovered on the Google Play Store that poses significant risks to device integrity.
Even if an app is removed from the Google Play Store, it may still be installed on the device if the user has already downloaded it.
Additionally, many of these apps are re-circulating with slightly altered names, making them difficult to detect. Therefore, it is essential to be vigilant and adopt preventive practices to protect your device.
Main Threats Discovered
One of the most dangerous categories of malicious apps is the “FakeApp” family, which attempts to trick users into making fraudulent purchases or investments. These apps use misleading interfaces and descriptions to appear legitimate, leading users to make decisions that could result in financial loss.
Another group of malicious apps, known as “Joker,” sign users up for paid subscriptions without their consent.
These apps are particularly dangerous because they perform these registrations in a hidden manner, using methods that make it difficult for the victim to detect them until the charges appear on the credit card or phone bill.
Spyware and Its Dangers
A significant threat that has resurfaced in 2020 is the “Mandrake” spyware. This malware disguises itself as file-sharing apps and productivity tools, managing to bypass Google Play Store security checks. Once installed, “Mandrake” can steal sensitive data from the device and install additional malware, further increasing the potential damage.
You need to know this too:
- 10 apps to improve your health and increase your well-being
- Alert! New digital virus disguises itself as GTA and other popular apps
- 4 public apps to monitor Climate and Air Quality in Brazil (with images)
Among the dangerous applications that carry this spyware are:
- AirFS
- Amber
- Astro Explorer
- Brain Matrix
- Cryptopulsing
These apps appear to be useful, but they are actually compromised, and when installed, they expose the device to a variety of attacks.
Malware Disguised as an Update
Another critical threat identified by ThreatFabric experts is the “Brokewell” malware, which disguises itself as a Google Chrome browser update.
This malware is especially dangerous because, once installed, it collects personal data, allows attackers to have remote control over the device and, most alarmingly, can access banking applications, putting the user's finances at risk.
Additionally, the “Vultur” banking malware, which targets Android devices, has recently been improved. It can now remotely control infected devices without even going through the Google Play Store.
It spreads through text messages that trick users into installing a disguised malicious application, a technique known as “smishing.”
Malicious Apps Disguised as Games
Doctor Web experts have also warned of a new type of malware that disguises itself as popular games and hides itself after being downloaded. These malware can continue to operate in the background, collecting data and compromising the security of the device. Some of the most downloaded games that have been identified as malicious include:
- Bitcoin Master (+ 1 million downloads)
- Crazy Magic Ball (+ 1 million downloads)
- HexaPop Link 2248 (+ 5 million downloads)
- Jelly Connect (+ 1 million downloads)
- Mega Win Slots (+ 500,000 downloads)
These applications, despite being attractive, have the main objective of infecting the device with malware, compromising the user's privacy and security.
Fleckpe: Apps with Hidden Paid Subscriptions
The “Fleckpe” malware has been found in photo editing apps and wallpaper packs. This malicious software subscribes users to paid subscriptions without their knowledge. To carry out this fraud, “Fleckpe” uses an invisible browser, which completes the transaction without the user noticing.
Applications associated with this malware include:
- Beauty Camera Plus
- Beauty Slimming Photo Editor
- GIF Camera Editor
- HD 4K Wallpaper
- Night Mode Camera Pro
These apps offer attractive features but operate fraudulently, causing financial losses to unsuspecting users.
How to Protect Your Device from Dangerous Apps
It is crucial to regularly scan the applications installed on your device and stay informed about new threats that may emerge.
Be wary of apps that ask for excessive permissions or that promise functionality that goes beyond what it appears to. Also, keep your device updated and use reliable security tools to identify and remove potential threats.
Digital security is an ongoing responsibility, and awareness is the first step to protecting your data and privacy.
