Google has always been stringent about the apps that possess a threat to the user’s smartphone and have been removing such apps regularly. In the same attempt, Google Play Store has removed 17 apps from Google Play Store again, which had traces of Joker Malware. California based IT security company called Zscaler monitored the 17 applications and found they were infected with the Joker malware. The infected application included scanners, Messengers, Photo editors, and translators.
Joker Malware has been one vulnerability that has been found in many applications before as well and removed. However, the malware is regularly detected in many apps on the Google Play store and immediately removed. The joker malware makes its way into the application by employing changes in its code, execution methods, or payload-retrieving techniques. The spyware is designed to steal SMS, contact lists, and device information and also gain access to the WAP protocol. The malware then makes the attempt to steal the money from the users as well as steal all their private information stored on the phone. Below is the list mentioned in the banned apps.
- All Good PDF Scanner
- Mint Leaf Message-Your Private Message
- Paper Doc Scanner
- Private SMS
- Unique Keyboard – Fancy Fonts & Free Emoticons
- Tangram App Lock
- Meticulous Scanner
- Care Message
- Hummingbird PDF Converter – Photo to PDF
- Direct Messenger
- Desire Translate
- One Sentence Translator – Multifunctional Translator
- Style Photo Collage
- Talent Photo Editor – Blur focus
- Part Message
- Blue Scanner
- All Good PDF Scanner
If you already have any of these apps on your smartphone, then remove it as soon as possible. These apps have around 120,000 downloads already and might have affected many users. As per the official statement from Zscaler, “We recommend paying close attention to the permission list in the apps that you install on your Android device. Always watch out for the risky permissions related to SMS, call logs, contacts, and more.“