Google Banned 13 Android Apps Containing Xamalicious Malware Capability of Taking Control of Devices Delete Them Asap All Details
McAfee Mobile Research Team detected 25 apps infected with Xamalicious malware Figured out And some were also available on Google Play Store. Although Google has removed 13 of these apps, but if you have already installed them, then as long as they remain on your smartphone, there will be a danger for you. In such a situation, we would advise you to immediately remove the apps mentioned below from your smartphone.
Xamalicious is a dangerous Android backdoor that exploits the Xamarin open-source mobile app platform. Once the app gains accessibility privileges, it silently communicates with a command-and-control server. Next, the server downloads a second payload onto the phone, allowing the malware to take full control of the device. This control can lead to fraudulent activities such as clicking on scam ads, installing apps, and other financial activities, all without the consent of the smartphone user.
The following 13 apps have been removed from Google Play, which you need to keep an eye on. Some of these apps have been downloaded more than 1 lakh times.
- Essential Horoscope for Android
- 3D Skin Editor for PE Minecraft
- Logo Maker Pro
- Auto Click Repeater
- Easy Calorie Calculator
- Sound Volume Extender
- LetterLink
- Universal Calculator
- Step Keeper: Easy Pedometer
- Track Your Sleep
- Sound Volume Booster
- Astrological Navigator: Daily Horoscope & Tarot
- NUMEROLOGY: PERSONAL HOROSCOPE & NUMBER PREDICTIONS
The McAfee Mobile Research Team explains that the use of the Xamarin framework has kept malware creators active for a long time. The process of creating the framework for APK files acts as a packer, which hides the malicious code. In addition, malware code writers have employed various obfuscation techniques and custom encryption to communicate with the command-and-control server and exfiltrate data.
While these apps are no longer available on Google Play, it’s important to note that Google cannot remove them from your phone automatically if you’ve already downloaded them. Therefore, you should check the full list of apps to ensure your device’s safety.
gave one to BGR Statement In 2018, Google spokesperson Ed Fernandez assured that “Google Play Protect is designed to protect users from malware, regardless of its source. Users who have downloaded any of these apps will receive warnings and the apps will be automatically uninstalled. Additionally, attempting to reinstall the apps after malware has been identified will trigger warnings and Android will block the download.”
