These Popular Android Apps Steal Data: Millions Warned to Check Phones!
Cyber-security company Bitdefender has discovered 35 popular Android apps designed to bombard users with (unsolicited) advertisements and steal sensitive data .
The mentioned titles spread malicious software (malware), and can be found in the official Play catalog , which makes the situation even more problematic.
A new tactic
Bitdefender says that the apps have been downloaded more than two million times, and the hackers took special care not to be detected.
- Certain applications hide their existence on devices by changing their name and icon as soon as the user installs them - experts warn.
Bitdefender points out that the application is not 100% safe, even if it is downloaded from the Google Play Store, Express reports .
- Earlier situations show that certain applications manage to cheat the security system and find their way to the official directory.
Useful tips
For this reason, IT experts advise users to adhere to the following rules :
* Don't install apps you don't need;
* Be sure to delete apps if you no longer use them;
* Beware of titles that have a large number of downloads and few reviews;
* Beware of apps that ask for permissions to access device options.
