Android owners are being warned to check their phones for 15 malicious apps and remove them immediately.
Online protection company McAfee has discovered a new type of malware called Xamalicious hiding in an Android app that has already been downloaded hundreds of thousands of times.
Although these apps are no longer available on the Google Play Store, Android users who have already downloaded them on their devices should take action immediately.
McAfee reports that hidden malware can take complete control of a device and perform fraudulent activities such as clicking on ads, installing apps, and other financially motivated activities without the user’s consent.
It is found throughout Europe, especially in the United Kingdom, Spain, Germany, the United States, Brazil, and Argentina.
Apps include apps related to horoscopes and health apps such as pedometers and sleep trackers.
13 apps you should delete on Android right now
- Essential horoscope for Android
- 3D Skin Editor for PE Minecraft
- logo maker pro
- autoclick repeater
- Count easy calorie calculator
- volume extender
- letter link
- Numerology: Personal horoscope and number predictions
- Step Keeper: Easy pedometer
- track your sleep
- volume booster
- Astrology Navigator: Daily Horoscopes and Tarot
- universal calculator
- Dot: Single wire connector
- cash magnet
Even if the application is not installed, users should always be aware of symptoms that may indicate that their device is infected with malware.
These include alerts about viruses, obsolete antivirus software, slow operation, reduced storage space, and device malfunctions.
Infected phones can also send emails and social media posts without the user’s knowledge.
How to protect your phone from dangerous apps
- When downloading a new app, McAfee recommends reviewing it with a critical eye first. Look for bad grammar in the app’s description, read reviews, and see if the developer has published other well-reviewed apps.
- Avoid using apps that require accessibility services unless you really need to use them.
- Make sure your mobile devices are protected with a comprehensive security solution that includes the ability to monitor and block potentially malicious links and apps.
- And as always, never click on suspicious links in messages or emails, even if you are told there is an urgent need to act. This is a common tactic by cybercriminals. If you are unsure whether it is genuine, please contact the company directly.
More information: iPhone and Android warning for people using these 17 apps: ‘Remove now’
Read more: Experts issue urgent warning on festive sales as millions fall victim to scams
More information: How to spot fraudulent emails and protect yourself with advice from a former hacker
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