A new report by security experts AVAST said their researchers discovered 21 Android apps with hidden adware that were downloaded more than 8 million times.
The malicious apps were disguised at games. Crooks used advertising on social media platforms like TikTok to target a mostly younger audience.
Here’s a list of the games containing adware:
- Shoot Them
- Crush Car
- Rolling Scroll
- Helicopter Attack – NEW
- Assassin Legend – 2020 NEW
- Helicopter Shoot
- Rugby Pass
- Flying Skateboard
- Iron it
- Shooting Run
- Plant Monster
- Find Hidden
- Find 5 Differences – 2020 NEW
- Rotate Shape
- Jump Jump
- Find the Differences – Puzzle Game
- Sway Man
- Money Destroyer
- Desert Against
- Cream Trip – NEW
- Props Rescue
Once you install the game, you’ll be bombarded with ads. Uninstalling the app is tricky, the scammers have it set up to hide the app’s icon.
Google is supposed to check all the apps it allows into their app store for malware but sometimes things slip through the cracks. It’s a good idea to thoroughly check the reviews for any game app you’re considering installing. Be suspicious if there’s nothing but a bunch of recent enthusiastic reviews.
Google has removed the apps in question from the PlayStore, but if you downloaded any of them, it’s time to uninstall the app and run a good malware scan.
Also, make sure you set up your kids’ devices so you’re required to approve any downloads or purchases.