Skip to main content

Google Play Store has removed popular apps with 20 million downloads: Heres why

Google Play has removed apps with more than 20 million downloads because they were using excessive mobile data and draining batteries, says a report.

According to a report by McAfee, it identified new Clicker malware that sneaked into Google Play. In total, 16 applications that were previously on Google Play have been confirmed to have the malicious payload with an assumed 20 million installations.

"Once the application is opened, it downloads its remote configuration by executing an HTTP request. After the configuration is downloaded, it registers the FCM (Firebase Cloud Messaging) listener to receive push messages," McAfee wrote in a blogpost.

"At first glance, it seems like well-made Android software. However, it is hiding ad fraud features behind, armed with remote configuration and FCM techniques," it added.

The security researchers notified Google that all the identified apps are no longer available on Google Play. Users are also protected by Google Play Protect, which blocks these apps on Android.

The malicious code was found on useful utility applications like Flashlight (Torch), QR readers, Camera, Unit converters, and Task managers.

The FCM message has various types of information and that includes which function to call and its parameters.

(Except for the headline and cover image, the rest of this IANS article is un-edited)

For more technology news, product reviews, sci-tech features and updates, keep reading Digit.in.



from Apps News https://ift.tt/n2Q7Otr

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Realme 12 Pro vs Poco X6 Pro: Which One to Buy?

Realme 12 Pro 5G was unveiled in India last week with a Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 SoC, a 5,000mAh battery with 67W fast charging, and a triple rear camera setup. The phone has a starting price of Rs. 25,999 and a lot of competition. We put the Realme 12 Pro 5G head-to-head against the Poco X6 Pro 5G, which starts at Rs. 26,999, to find out which one’s more value for money. from Gadgets 360 https://ift.tt/iXNeUtW

Facebook to shut down standalone gaming app in Oct

New Delhi, Aug 31 (IANS) Meta is winding up its standalone Facebook Gaming app on both Android and iOS from October 28. The app will also be not available on Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Meta did not elaborate on why it is shuttering the standalone gaming app. "Despite this news, our mission to connect players, fans and creators with the games they love hasn't changed, and you'll still be able to find your games, streamers and groups when you visit Gaming in the Facebook app," reads a banner on its website. "We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to all of you for everything that you've done to build a thriving community for gamers and fans since this app first launched," the notice added. The app was launched in April 2020 to let users watch their favourite streamers, play instant games and take part in gaming groups. "Facebook experienced some hurdles trying to launch the app, as Apple rejected the app numerous times, citing its rul...

Poco X6 Neo to Launch in India by March, Poco F6 to Follow: Report

Poco X6 Neo is expected to launch in India soon. Previous leaks had suggested key specifications it could carry and the likely price of the smartphone in the country. Now a tipster has hinted at the launch timeline of the phone. Another model, the Poco F6, previously spotted on an Indian certification site, has also been tipped to be unveiled in the country soon. from Gadgets 360 https://ift.tt/mr0oetb