Be on the lookout: Malware on our smartphones!
Fraudulent apps and malware are targeting our phones. The numbers are alarming!
Avast identified 47 pieces of malware and 38 fraudulent apps related to the imaging industry on the Play Store.
The number of downloads is nonetheless impressive: for the first series, more than 15 million in Belgium and France. For the second series, potentially more than 20 million.
A real threat to our cell phones and our data
There are several types of fraud involving smartphone apps.
One such type is known as “HiddenAds.” It operates in a manner similar to that of “Trojan horse” malware. At first glance, the app appears legitimate. In reality, it is riddled with malware designed to infiltrate the phone. Once installed, it floods the smartphone with intrusive ads, making it difficult to use.
Another scam involves hiding the app’s icon from the phone’s home screen as soon as it’s downloaded. This makes it impossible for the user to access the malicious program in order to uninstall it.
“These apps don’t offer any real functionality,” said White Ops, “because they remove their icons from the home screen, which then makes it nearly impossible for users to access them. These apps are therefore likely designed and created solely for fraudulent purposes.” (source: forbes.fr).
What are the risks for cell phones?
The consequences can be far more disastrous than just annoying and persistent ads: data theft, espionage…
Most of our digital devices (computers, smartphones, tablets, etc.) are connected to one another. Without exception, they serve as a gateway to the digital world. As a result, they all become potential targets for hackers. All the techniques used in computer hacking can also be applied to cell phones:
- Malware downloads
- Dangerous email attachments
- Text messages packed with links that hide malware
- Fraudulent websites…
How can you protect your smartphone from fraudulent apps?
- Install only apps from verified and secure sources.
- Before downloading anything, do your research. Check out reviews and ratings.
- If you're unsure, uninstall the app immediately. If the icon is hidden, use your program/task/app manager. (This is usually found in your phone's settings.)
