Android users warned to check phone settings now as 31 infected apps uncovered

01 August 2023 , 06:35

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Cyber attackers have been targeting Android users

Android users are being urged to check their phones for a series of dodgy apps that experts claim are being used to scam people. According to the security team at Trend Micro, over 31 apps have been identified in a campaign by cybercriminals to hijack victims' digital wallets and steal their identities.

Although these apps have now been removed from the Google Play Store, they could still be present on the devices of people who installed them, placing them at risk of attack by the cybercriminals in question.

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That includes a number of fake money-earning apps which promised to let people make cash, including platforms such 'Domo', 'Canyon', 'Synthnet' and more, as well as a number of cryptocurrency-related apps which allowed attackers to steal victims' money and personal information.

Cybercriminals have been targeting Android users with dodgy Play Store apps

To stay protected, it's recommended that you head to your Android device settings and install any available software updates as this will bring your security up-to-date.

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After that, have a quick browse through your app library to see if anything looks unusual. Pay particular attention to any cryptocurrency or play-to-earn game apps, and if anything looks unfamiliar, make sure you delete it.

Running a mobile antivirus or antimalware app such as Avast or Kaspersky is also a great idea as this will clear up any dodgy files.

If you're still not sure, head to your Settings app, tap Apps. and then open the Permissions page. Here you should be able to see which apps have access to the different kinds of private data you have on your device.

Double check that every app you download is from an official or certified source

The MARS team at Trend Micro said: "Our investigation uncovered a series of connected campaigns involving the CherryBIos malware and other fake money-earning apps on Google Play. The threat actor behind these campaigns employed advanced techniques to evade detection."

The team added that the apps were distributed around the world in different Google Play regions, but particularly in parts of Asia and north America: "These campaigns have targeted a global audience and continue to pose a significant risk to users, as evidenced by the ongoing presence of malicious apps on Google Play."

Ciaran Daly