FOUR dangerous virus-laden apps have been dramatically removed from the Google Play Store.
But for the 100,000 people who had already downloaded them on Android phones, it might be too late.
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The four apps in question have very generic names, including Smart SMS Messages, which has been downloaded more than 50,000 times.
Others on the blocked list include Blood Pressure Monitor, Voice Languages Translator and Quick Text SMS, each of which had more than 10,000 downloads.
They were all found to contain malware called Joker.
This special form of malware is also known as fleeceware because of the way it works.
Once secretly installed via seemingly ordinary apps, it secretly subscribes to paid services with premium SMS and calls.
It all happens in the background, which means the victims don’t know about it.
The four apps found with Joker have been uncovered by Pradeo experts.
And they are by no means the first.
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You join a growing list of apps, numbering in the thousands, that have been lurking with the same virus for the past three years.
“All of these apps are programmed to install other applications on users’ devices, acting as droppers to deliver potentially even more dangerous malware,” pradeo warned.
“By using as little code as possible and hiding it thoroughly, Joker creates a very discreet footprint that can be difficult to detect.
“Users are advised to delete these applications from their smartphones and tablets immediately to avoid fraudulent activity.”
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https://www.thesun.ie/tech/9064077/android-apps-joker-malware-fleeceware-delete-warning/ Warning to ALL Android owners – delete these four apps from your phone immediately