An old malware is now back on the Google Play Store. The Joker Malware that was first detected in 2017 has been spotted again in Play Store. Many users have downloaded some fraudulent apps carrying the malware and then fallen prey to it. Since its discovery, Joker Malware quickly became the malware of choice for cybercriminals to take over Android users’ phones.
Security experts have often expressed concern about the Joker Virus, a spyware program called Trojan that enables hackers to access victim’s phones and install harmful malware. The malware was once again discovered on various Google Play Store apps. This joker malware was found in four apps on the Google Play Store, according to cybersecurity research company Pradeo. These infected apps include Smart SMS Messages, blood pressure monitor, voice language translator, and quick text messages.
Google has eliminated these apps from the Play Store after receiving a notification from the research team. However, even before the removal procedure, it is concerning that there are more than 100,000 combined installations. This means that a significant portion of people is already having issues. Many users still have these apps on their mobile phones even though Google has removed them.
The Joker Malware was initially applied to SMS-related fraud. But over time, it changed into a potent technique that can secretly access users’ devices. They can read notifications, take screenshots without leaving any traces, send and read SMS messages, make calls, and even intercept one-time passwords and security codes. One may say that this spyware is capable of doing nearly everything on your device.
It is advisable to every Android user should monitor their list of downloaded applications. Researchers have advised android users to delete the apps immediately if found on their device.
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Ms Kalinga
Through these apps strongly implies naming them. poor journalism