With the advancement of technology, cybercrime is also increasing. Cybercriminals are leaving no stone unturned to make use of technology to have their way of doing all things illegal. Thus, the responsibility majorly falls on the users to safeguard themselves.
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Tread with caution
It is important to not fall for every latest trend that leads users to either visit unscrupulous websites or install such apps. A lot of malicious apps have made their way to Google Play Store which contain viruses. Malware Bytes recently released a list of such apps.
Suggested read: Some Spooky Apps on WhatsApp and YouTube that can destroy your Phone
Malware bytes reveals
In a blog post, the cyber security provider wrote, “A family of malicious apps from developer Mobile apps Group are listed on Google Play and infected with Android/Trojan.HiddenAds.BTGTHB. In total, four apps are listed, and together they have amassed at least one million downloads.”
They further added, “Older versions of these apps have been detected in the past as different variants of Android/Trojan.HiddenAds. Yet, the developer is still on Google Play dispensing its latest HiddenAds malware.” They also said, “This follows on the heels of adware that was found on Google Play just a couple months ago from a rogue PDF reader.”
List of apps
The names of the malicious apps on the Google Play Store are:
- Bluetooth Auto Connect
- Mobile Transfer: smart switch
- Driver: Bluetooth, USB
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth App Sender
How do the app functions?
The apps stay hidden before showing malware behavior. Delaying malicious behavior is a common ploy to dodge detection by malware developers in general. But the said apps can delay for quite a while.
After initial delays, the apps open phishing websites in the Chrome browser. The content of the websites varies. While some are harmless pay-per-click sites, others are used to trick people.
Also read: YoWhatsApp is Malware in Guise of A Better Version of WhatsApp
Recommendations and precautions
Users are suggested to remove these apps from their smartphones immediately if they have installed any of them. Before downloading any app in the future always check the app permissions and developer’s information. It is better to stick to safe apps that are well-known with good ratings. Keep the eyes open and most of these apps give tell-tale signs of being problematic.
