Android users warned to delete 18 apps hiding ‘malicious secret’ that puts your device at risk of takeover

ANDROID users have been warned about 18 apps that can pose a threat to their devices.

Like most smartphone owners, you probably have many apps downloaded onto your device.

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However, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that cybercriminals use apps to target victims and their bank accounts.

And one of the biggest avenues for hackers is Android software, thanks to its open-source program.

Unlike iOS, “it is easy for cybercriminals to infiltrate an Android device using malicious apps,” antimalware company Malwarefox revealed in a blog.

Malicious apps include malware-filled programs like trojans, adware, spyware, and more.

The goal of malware is to attack your device, steal your data, and eventually hack your banking information.

Another goal of malware is to disseminate the malicious programs to other devices and users.

Below we have shared a list of apps that could be infected with malware on your device, per GizChina.com.

APPS TO REMOVE NOW

1. Agent Shooter
2. Rainbow Stretch
3. Rubber Punch 3D
4. Super Skibydi Killer
5. GazEndow Economic
6. MoneyMentor
7. TKF Program
8. FinancialFusion
9. Financial Vault
10. Invest Calculator
11. Eternal Maze
12. Jungle Jewels
13. Stellar Secrets
14. Fire Fruits
15. Cowboy’s Frontier
16. Enchanted Elixir
17. Beauty Wallpaper HD
18. Love Emoji Messenger

“If you have any of the apps listed above on your Android device, it’s crucial to remove them immediately to safeguard your data and privacy,” GizChina warned.

“This malware presents a grave threat to your device’s security, and the longer you delay, the more vulnerable you become.”

OUTDATED APPS

Outdated apps can also prove to be very dangerous for your Android device.

This is mainly because they are often not supported by their developers, making them potentially risky. 

Apps that no longer receive support tend to contain unpatched security flaws that make them attractive to hackers.

If you notice outdated or unsupported apps on your phone, it’s best to delete them.

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF

For starters, it’s important to always keep your device updated.

You should also avoid installing apps from unofficial Android stores.

Furthermore, you should never download anything from strange pop-up windows.

To protect yourself further, it helps to install antivirus and antimalware software – as long as they’re legitimate.

This post first appeared on Thesun.co.uk