If you’ve downloaded certain apps from Google Play Store, your bank accounts could be in serious trouble. The “Joker” virus is back in business, doing its evil scheme across Android devices. We’re talking about a powerful malware capable of subscribing users to payment services without them granting any authorization.
The Belgian Police raise awareness about the “Joker” virus, according to Entrepreneur.com. The authorities say on their website:
This malicious program has been detected in eight Play Store applications that Google has suppressed.
Back in September 2020, “Joker” was present in 24 Android apps that registered over 500,000 downloads before they got removed. More than 30 countries were affected.
Google took down 8 apps from the Play Store
If you’ve downloaded any of the following apps from the Play Store, you must delete them ASAP if you care about your bank accounts:
• Auxiliary Message
• Element Scanner
• Fast Magic SMS
• Free CamScanner
• Go Messages
• Super Message
• Super SMS
• Travel Wallpapers
Google already deleted them from its Play Store, but they could still be present on people’s smartphones. Furthermore, running a scan with your antivirus for your device is the next logical and useful step that you can take.
“Joker” is a Trojan virus belonging to the malware family known as Bread, having the objective to hack phone bills. According to researchers from the Quick Heal Security Lab, the virus is able to infiltrate into contacts, text messages, as well as other information present on the infected smartphone.
If you ask us, the best way to stay protected online is your own vigilance. Don’t rely too much on software promising you that it will do all the hard work of avoiding cyber threats. Don’t download any app on your phone that has an attractive description, don’t access any link you receive via email, and make sure that you always keep your device and software up-to-date.