Get ready for this disturbing revelation. A new report from researchers at IT security solutions company Dr.Web has found that more than 100 Android apps have been downloaded more than a staggering 421 million times by a new strain of malware.
What’s this New malware variants?
The malware, named SpinOK, also contained a spyware module. SpinOK is primarily used as a marketing software development kit (SDK) designed to maintain user interest in the app with the help of mini-games, a system of quests, and so-called drawings of prizes and rewards.
Here is an example of an ad displayed by SpinOk:
A new report by researchers from IT security solutions company Dr.Web found that more than 100 Android apps (Cyberguy.com)
Dr.Web’s team discovered that SpinOK is capable of hacking even the best Android phone models and stealing private information stored on them, including data from sensors that can be used to detect simulated or test environments and adjust operating routines to avoid being hacked Detected by cyber security experts.
Once it has the required information, it sends it to a remote server controlled by the cybercriminal running SpinOK.
Which applications are affected?
Did you know this price tracking feature on Android?
There are more than 100 Android apps affected by this malware, you can find A their full list here. However, the most commonly downloaded apps are listed here.
biugo – Video maker and video editor (at least 50,000,000 installs)
Cash EM: Earn rewards (at least 5,000,000 installs)
cash magazine – Earn monetary rewards (at least 10,000,000 installs)
crazy drop (at least 10,000,000 installs)
fizo novel – Read offline (at least 10,000,000 installs)
MV bit – MV Video Status Maker (at least 50,000,000 installs)
noise: Video Editor with Music (at least 100,000,000 installs)
tick: Watch to earn money (at least 5,000,000 installs)
Wei Fei: Video Editor & Video Maker (at least 50,000,000 installs)
Fast tooth – File transfer, sharing (at least 100,000,000 installs; Trojan module existed in version 6.3.3 to version 6.4, no longer exists 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 no longer contain malware strains. If you really want to keep an app listed, you can update it to the latest version. Although, I recommend removing it entirely.
How to Change the Privacy Settings on Your Android Device
A stressed man screams (Cyberguy.com)
What can I do to protect myself from infected apps in the future?
It’s always an unfortunate event when our favorite apps that initially look safe end up infected with malware. With these apps, it’s not clear whether the app developers were duped by SpinOK’s distributors, or if malware was intentionally included in the apps, so you have to be vigilant to protect yourself, not for every app you see Programs are all fully trusted. Here are some of my tips.
eliminate Apps from Android
If you have any malicious apps on your Android phone, follow these steps to remove them immediately:
- Long press on the app you want to delete and a window will pop up
- then hit uninstall or go to set up
- scroll down to application View your application list
- Click on the app you want to delete
- then hit uninstall (located at the very bottom center of the screen)
- notes: Settings may vary depending on your Android phone manufacturer
Do this before you throw out that old Android phone
Update your applications and operating system
The developers regularly release updates, which include security patches to fix vulnerabilities. Keep your applications and operating system up to date to ensure you have the latest protection against potential threats.
have good antivirus software
Antivirus software provides more comprehensive protection by scanning your device for viruses, spyware, and other types of malware. It also detects and removes malware installed on your device and alerts you to any phishing emails or ransomware scams. Most importantly, antivirus software prevents you from clicking malicious links that might 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 by going to CyberGuy.com/LockUpYourTech
looking for good reviews
Anker portable charger can charge Android phones such as Apple and Samsung. (Anker)
Remove These Dangerous Android Apps Now
While having antivirus software is great, it doesn’t hurt to do your own research before downloading an app. Even if the app is from a source like Google Play Store, remember that Google Play Store apps can always be infected, and the reviews and ratings there can be fake.
It’s a good idea to look for reviews elsewhere than the Google Play Store. Check to see if the app has a website or social media page you can browse. Go to YouTube and see if anyone has done a video review of the app so you can see how it actually works. Always be cautious if an app asks to use certain permissions, such as accessing your photos or contacts.
Be skeptical about app cloning
Sometimes cybercriminals create fake or cloned versions of popular applications to trick you into downloading malware. Pay attention to the app name, developer name, and reviews to make sure you’re downloading the legitimate version.
trust your gut
If something doesn’t feel right about an app, trust your instincts. If an app looks suspicious, has poor reviews, or exhibits unexpected behavior, it’s best to err on the side of caution and avoid downloading or using it.
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Kurt’s Essentials
The most important thing to remember is that not every app can be trusted. While it is helpful to have a lot of positive reviews and downloads, we can now see that those reviews and downloads are not always that important since any app can be infected with malware. Do your research and download antivirus software to make sure you’re protected above all else.
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