If you downloaded apps from Play Store over the past 12 months you might want to give your phone a thorough check and spring clean. Security experts from the team at say that dangerous and malicious apps continue to find their way onto this official platform with millions of users thought to have downloaded them over the past 12 months.
According to Zscaler, more than 200 malware-packed applications have been found on the Play Store with them getting installed over eight million times by unsuspecting phone owners. It's a worrying stat that shows no signs of slowing.
In fact, mobile remains a top threat vector, with a 111 percent growth in spyware and a 29 percent growth in banking malware.
Anatsa, for example, is a well-known Android banking bug that uses PDF and QR code readers to distribute malware. It has targeted more than 650 financial institutions since it was created by cyber crooks.
"Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting legacy exposed assets which often act as a beachhead to IoT & OT environments, resulting in data breaches and ransomware attacks," said Deepen Desai, Chief Security Officer at Zscaler.
"Mobile malware and AI driven vishing attacks adds to that list making it critical for CISOs and CIOs to prioritize an AI powered zero trust solution to shut down attack vectors of all kinds safeguarding against these attacks."
Google is working hard to stop harmful applications appearing on its Play Store but with so much software available it's inevitable that some bad apps will slip through the net.
Many are removed as soon as they are found to be hiding malware but this new alert is a reminder to always be careful before installing any new apps on your phone.
Before tapping the download button, check the reviews and make sure the developer has a good reputation.
If you notice your phone suddenly slows after an app is installed or you start getting bombarded by adverts it could be a good idea to check the application and consider deleting it.
Another useful tip is to make sure Google Play Protect is enabled on your device as this Google service is aimed at keeping your apps safe and your data private
Google Play Protect checks your apps and devices for harmful behaviour and it can even deactivate or remove harmful apps from your device
To check you have this update enabled simply open the Google Play Store app. At the top right, tap the profile icon then tap Play Protect and then Settings Settings.
Turn Scan apps with Play Protect on or off.
You may also like
Jharkhand's Healthcare Crisis: Pregnant Woman Gives Birth Outside Hospital, Sparking Outrage
Typhus: Know All About The Silent Killer That's Spreading Fast
Indian Navy is biggest guarantee of peace in Indian Ocean Region, says Rajnath Singh
Abu Dhabi: Free breast cancer screening announced across multiple locations
Denmark Open: Sindhu enters second round; Treesa-Gayatri, Sumeeth-Sikki exit
How is the Sokudo Acute electric scooter? Know what features it has and what is its range
Marks & Spencer shoppers plead for more colours of 'incredibly comfy and warm' funnel neck jumper
Japan sees record foreign tourist arrivals in September
The secret of bumper mileage and strong handling of Maruti cars is revealed!
Eight shocking celebrity moments caught on camera from TV star's 'refusal to clap' to smooch
Dubai school among world's top 150 private institutions in 2024
Inflation crashes! Now BoE has no excuse and MUST slash interest rates to the bone
Drunk Elephant moisturiser that 'helps with redness' and is 'perfect for winter' hits sale with £20 off
Maruti Baleno's Regal Edition is here to make a splash before Diwali, customers will go crazy on seeing it
Russian general threatens invasion of NATO countries and 'restoration' of Soviet Union
Thomas Tuchel net worth, huge England salary and big financial sacrifice
Celebrity chef Shabir Hussain - dubbed the 'King of Curry' -dies aged 56
Your car will start giving 20 to 30 percent more mileage, just do these important settings while driving
Mumbai's Iconic Rhythm House Located At Kala Ghoda Gets New Owner Under Insolvency Auction
Debenhams' 'easy to wear' and 'flattering' autumn dress is perfect with boots