Be prepared for this alarming fact. A new report by researchers at IT security solutions company Dr. Web found that more than 100 Android apps with more than 421 million total downloads were infected with new malware.
What is this new malware strain?
This malware strain is named SpinOK and it also contains a spyware module. SpinOK is primarily used as a marketing software development kit (SDK), designed to keep users engaged with the app through mini-games, task systems, prize and reward draws, and more.
Below are examples of advertisements displayed by SpinOk.
According to a new report by researchers at IT security solutions company Dr. Web, more than 100 Android apps (Cyber Guy.com)
Dr. Web’s team found that SpinOK can infiltrate even the best Android phone models and steal personal information stored on them. This includes data from sensors that can be used to detect simulated and test environments and adjust operating routines to avoid hazards. Detected by cyber security experts.
Once it has the required information, it sends it to a remote server controlled by cybercriminals running SpinOK.
What apps are affected?
Are you familiar with this price tracking feature for Android?
There are over 100 Android apps affected by this malware strain, which you can find below. Full list of them here. However, here is a list of the most frequently downloaded apps:
Biugo – Video Maker & Video Editor (at least 50,000,000 installs)
Cash EM: Earn rewards (at least 5,000,000 installs)
cash gin – Earn cash prizes (at least 10,000,000 installs)
crazy drop (at least 10,000,000 installations)
fizzo novel – Offline reading (at least 10,000,000 installations)
MV bit – MV Video Status Maker (at least 50,000,000 installs)
noise: Video Editor with Music (at least 100 million installs)
check mark: Watch to earn (at least 5,000,000 installs)
V fly: Video Editor & Video Creator (at least 50,000,000 installs)
Zapiya – File transfer, sharing (at least 100,000,000 installations. Trojan module was present from version 6.3.3 to version 6.4, but is not present in current version 6.4.1)
Many of these apps have been removed from the Google Play Store. However, some have just been updated to contain no malware strains. If you really want to keep the apps listed, you can update them to the latest version. However, it is recommended to remove it completely.
How to change privacy settings on your Android device
Stressed man shouts (Cyber Guy.com)
How can I protect myself from infected apps in the future?
It’s always disappointing when your favorite app, which seemed safe at first, ends up being infected with malware. For these apps, it is still unclear whether the app developer was duped by his SpinOK distributor or if malware was intentionally put into the app, so protect yourself and be seen. You should be careful to put your full trust in every app. . Here are some of my tips.
delete Apps from Android
If you have a malicious app on your Android phone, remove it immediately by following these steps.
- Long press the app you want to remove and a window will appear
- then hit Uninstall Or go to setting
- scroll down to app To view the list of apps
- Tap the app you want to remove
- then hit Uninstall (located at the bottom center of the screen)
- Note: Settings may vary by Android smartphone manufacturer
Do This Before Throwing Out Your Old Android Phone
Update apps and operating system
Developers regularly release updates containing security patches that fix vulnerabilities. Keep your apps and operating system up to date to ensure the latest protection against potential threats.
offal good antivirus software
Antivirus software provides more comprehensive protection by scanning your device for viruses, spyware, and other types of malware. It can also detect and remove malicious software already installed on your device and warn you about phishing emails and ransomware scams. Most importantly, antivirus software stops you from clicking malicious links that can install malware on your device in the first place.
Check out my expert reviews of the best antivirus protection for Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices. CyberGuy.com/LockUpYourTech
Look for good reviews
Anker Portable Charger can charge a variety of mobile phones such as Apple, Samsung and other Androids. (anchor)
Remove These Dangerous Android Apps Now
Antivirus software can be very helpful, but it doesn’t hurt to do your own research before downloading an app. Be aware that even if the app comes from a source such as the Google Play Store, apps in the Google Play Store can always be infected and the reviews and ratings found there can be faked. .
We recommend looking for reviews outside of the Google Play Store. Check if the app has a website or social media page that you can browse. Head over to YouTube and see if anyone has done a video review of the app to see how it actually works. Also, always be careful when an app asks to use certain permissions, such as access to photos or contacts.
Be skeptical of app cloning
In some cases, cybercriminals create fake or cloned versions of popular apps to trick users into downloading malware. Pay attention to the app name, developer name and reviews to make sure you are downloading the legitimate version.
trust your instincts
If something about the app doesn’t feel right, trust your intuition. If an app looks suspicious, has low reviews, or exhibits unexpected behavior, it’s best to be cautious and avoid downloading or using it.
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Cart key points
The most important thing to remember is that not all apps are trustworthy. Having lots of great reviews and downloads is helpful, but I’ve found that those reviews and downloads aren’t necessarily important because any app can get infected with malware. Do your research and download antivirus software to make sure you are protected above all else.
Should we expect better warnings from smartphone manufacturers and app stores? CyberGuy.com/contact
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