In disappointing news, the Google Play store has revealed yet another naughty duo hiding in the digital realm.A major cybersecurity company called Pradeo It was he who discovered it. After detecting this illegal activity, Pradeo immediately alerted Google and the app was removed from Google Play. Pradeo researchers discovered two malicious apps containing spyware that covertly send Android users’ personal data to servers in China. Here’s what we know so far and what you can do if these apps are downloaded on your device:
What are these apps and what do they do?
The two apps masqueraded as file management tools and had over 1.5 million total downloads. The two apps are named File recovery and data recovery and file manager, Both are by the same developer. Each app was intended to be a way to help Android users organize files and data on their phones. Both apps also state that no data collection takes place under surveillance.
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Two apps disguised as file management tools were downloaded on the Google Play store and stole data from many Android users. (CyberGuy.com)
Credit: Pradeo
What did these malicious apps collect and share with China?
According to Pradeo’s report, these apps actually manage personal data such as contact lists, media files, real-time location information, phone country code, network provider details, SIM provider network code, operating system, and more. A version, device brand and model that was found to have collected a large amount of user information and shared it with China without people’s knowledge.
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Hackers’ deceptive tactics behind two apps
The hackers behind these apps used install farms to artificially inflate the number of downloads, making the apps appear trustworthy. Inflating the number of downloads creates the illusion of trust and makes potential victims more likely to install the app. Additionally, each app also had advanced permissions set to hide its icon on his Android home screen, making it more difficult to uninstall. This makes it easier for hackers to maintain a presence on a victim’s device, increasing the chances of unauthorized access and malicious activity.
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Google’s response to Google Play Store apps
When asked for comment on the two malicious apps found in the Google Play Store, a Google spokesperson said:
“These apps have been removed from Google Play. Google Play Protect will prevent apps known to contain this malware on Android devices that use Google Play services from removing those apps from non-Play. It protects users even from sources of
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What if I have these apps on my Android?
You can also delete the app yourself, Google Play Protect, This is built-in malware protection for Android devices and automatically removes known malware. However, it’s important to note that Google Play Protect alone may not be enough. Historically, it has not been 100% certain to remove all known malware from Android devices.
Deploy antivirus software on all devices
Having good antivirus software installed can prevent hackers from getting into your device. Installing antivirus software on your device will definitely stop you from clicking on potentially malicious links that could install malware on your device and give hackers access to your private information. Additionally, it is designed to notify you if malware is already present on your device, so you can work on removing it right away.
Read my expert reviews on the best antivirus protection for you. Windows, Mac, Android, iOS devices by going to Cyberguy.com/LockUpYourTech.
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File Manager is an app that sends Android user’s information to a server in China. (CyberGuy.com)
Credit: Pradeo
How to uninstall an app on Android
Settings may vary by Android phone manufacturer
- go to you setting app
- Tap apps and notifications or simply app
- Tap See all apps
- scroll down to find the app you want to uninstall
- Tap an app, then tap Uninstall
- strike OK
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What can I do to prevent this from happening in the future?
You should always be careful before downloading any new app to your phone, even if it comes from legitimate sources like Google Play Store or App Store.
Read reviews and privacy policy
This is one of the most important steps you can take before downloading an app. Make sure you know exactly what permissions the app has and read the reviews carefully before handing over your personal information. Hackers may post generic fake reviews to make your app appear legitimate when it isn’t, so please be specific with these reviews. It doesn’t hurt to do some research to find out if the app developer is legal.
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
Unfortunately, these hackers manage to trick innocent people into downloading these malicious apps. Therefore, we must always be vigilant and research everything before downloading any app on our phone or tablet. Remember, staying vigilant and doing a little preventative research can save us from the endless headaches caused by these cunning hackers and their nefarious apps.
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What more can app stores do to prevent malicious apps like this from sending our personal data to foreign countries like China? Email us at Cyberguy.com/Contact .
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