Smartphone users have received an urgent warning from police and cybersecurity experts about 8 popular apps that could damage their phone with a dangerous virus.
The affected apps were removed from the Google Play Store and Apple blocked them on its devices after finding evidence of “Joker” malware.
However, Android users could still be in danger and are being asked to remove them from their devices.
The malware was first identified in 2019 and is capable of wreaking havoc on the phones it infects.
The malware has been found installing hidden spyware and premium dialers that can take out expensive monthly subscriptions.
Previous victims have discovered that they have been billed over £ 240 per year for fraudulent plans.
Security firm Zimperium said it has seen more than 1,000 new samples of Joker since it last reported on the issue in 2020.
Researchers at cybersecurity company Quick Heal Security Lab have also revealed that the latest wildcard virus can access text messages, contacts, and a lot of other personal information on smartphones.
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Warning from police and security experts
In a warning, Belgian police said: “Warning! The Joker virus is back in the Android environment.
“This malware has been spotted in 8 apps from the Play Store which have in the meantime been removed by Google, but if you have already installed one, remove it as soon as possible.”
Security firm Zimperium warns that cyber thieves have regularly found new and unique ways to smuggle this malware into official and unofficial app stores.
“Joker Trojans are malicious Android apps known since 2017 for their notorious fraud on user bills and subscription to premium services,” Zimperium explained.
“The result of a successful mobile infection is financial gain for the cybercriminal, often right under the victim’s nose long after the money is gone, with little to no recourse to recover.”
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Source: www.times-series.co.uk
This notice was published: 2021-09-04 12:00:00
