Attention! Delete these apps from your Android smartphone now
What's the story
Google has pulled a bunch of apps from its Play Store, all because of their association with KoSpy spyware.
The malware, which is tied to North Korean hacking group APT37 (ScarCruft), poses a serious threat by collecting sensitive user data like call logs, SMS, and device location.
Lookout's security researchers found it in fake utility apps like 'Phone Manager,' 'File Manager,' 'Smart Manager,' 'Kakao Security,' and 'Software Update Utility.'
Risk assessment
KoSpy spyware poses a serious threat
The KoSpy spyware represents a serious threat to user privacy and data security.
It can collect SMS messages and call logs, track device location, access files and folders, record audio and capture photos.
Additionally, it can take screenshots and record keystrokes as well as collect Wi-Fi network details.
Even though Google has removed these apps from Play Store, they could still be on some devices or available via third-party sources.
Additional removals
Google cracks down on ad fraud apps
Along with the KoSpy spyware, Google has pulled 180 apps participating in an ad fraud scheme from its Play Store.
The tech giant also removed apps infected with Anatsa/Teabot trojan.
While these malicious apps are no longer available for download, users who installed them in the past are still at risk.
This emphasizes the need to regularly check and remove unnecessary access granted to apps on devices.
User precautions
Steps to protect your device from malicious apps
To protect their devices, users are advised to immediately delete any of the identified malicious apps if installed.
They should also keep Google Play Protect enabled for scanning harmful apps and avoid downloading from third-party sources.
Regular software updates for security patches and checking app permissions to remove unnecessary access granted to apps are also recommended.
These steps can help mitigate risks associated with potentially harmful applications.