Fri. Mar 29th, 2024
Image Source : The Indian Express

Google has removed 17 apps infected by Joker Malware from Play Store. An IT security company of California named Zscaler monitored the apps and found that they have been infected by the Joker Malware. The list of applications include a large number of PDF scanners, photo editors, messengers and translators.

Zscaler explained that Joker can find its way back to the official application market of Google by bringing changes in its code, execution methods and payload-retrieving system. This is designed to steal messages, contacts and device information with signing up the victim for premium wireless application protocol services.

Joker can also steal the money and private information of users like SMS, device information and contact lists. Here is the list of the infected applications-

  1. All Good PDF Scanner
  2. Mint Leaf Message – Your Private Message
  3. Unique Keyboard Fancy Fonts & Free
  4. Emoticons
  5. Tangram App Lock
  6. Direct Messenger
  7. Private SMS
  8. One Sentence Translator Multifunctional
  9. Translator
  10. Style Photo Collage
  11. Meticulous Scanner
  12. Desire Translate
  13. Talent Photo Editor Blur Focus
  14. Care Message
  15. Part Message
  16. Blue Scanner
  17. Hummingbird PDF Converter Photo to PDF
  18. All Good PDF Scanner
Image Source : Screen Rant

The apps have been removed from the play store and had around 120,000 downloads before their removal. If people have downloaded any of these apps, they should uninstall them as soon as possible. Joker has the ability to steal information in which case users should check their credit card and bank statement regarding any suspicious charges.

Users should also check their Google Play account regarding any unwanted purchases or subscriptions. At last, a security solution can also help up to a great extent. Zscaler recommended users to look at the permission list in the apps installed in their Android device and check the risky permisssions related to SMS, contactss, call logs and more.

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