Last week, Google removed sixteen Android apps from the Google Play Store after it was found to contain malware that consumes data and drains batteries.
The apps have been downloaded by over 20 million users.
Designed to look like utilities, including flashlights, camera boosters, unit converters, task managers, etc., the apps contained clicker malware, which secretly runs in the background and click on illicit advertising links to generate advertising revenue.
Although clicker malware is not as dangerous as malware that steals passwords or bank details, it still causes disruptions by draining the battery or using mobile data, which could cost money to users by taking them out of their data allowance.
McAfee, a cybersecurity firm, has identified the apps with malware and notified Google and all identified apps are no longer available on Google Play.
“Recently, McAfee Mobile research team identified a new Clicker malware that intruded into Google Play. A total of 16 apps that were previously on Google Play were confirmed to have the malicious payload with around 20 million facilities,” McAfee said on its website.
For the McAfee list of 16 apps, Click here.
For more, Click here.
