Google’s Playstore has identified dangerous apps that can steal the user’s data. Adware is a type of software that shows unwanted advertisements and even tracks the users for specific ads.
It can steal your data and money causing a threat to your security. Avast Antivirus, a security platform for internet applications has found 21 apps that contain HiddenAds malware.
The apps are mostly gaming apps and give temptation to users for downloading them by promising a virtual gaming experience. In reality, these apps can fill your phone with ads, can track your data, or even steal your money. For those who don’t know about HiddenAds malware, it disguises as a safe app but serves loads of ads and steals data.
There are 21 such apps in total. 3 of them have been removed from the Google Playstore. The other 19 apps are still present and are under investigation. These apps have around 8 million downloads, meaning they are quite popular. Here is the list of the 21 harmful apps:-
- Shoot them
- Rolling Scroll
- Crush Car
- Helicopter Attack – NEW
- Rugby Pass
- Helicopter Shoot
- Flying Skateboard
- Assassin Legend – 2020 NEW
- Plant Monster
- Shooting Run
- Iron it
- Find Hidden
- Rotate Shape
- Find the Differences – Puzzle Game
- Find 5 Differences – 2020 NEW
- Jump Jump
- Desert Against
- Money Destroyer
- Sway Man
- Props Rescue
- Cream Trip – NEW
Adware Developers target users via social media channels, for example, many users reported that they saw these games advertisements on YouTube. They target audiences on the popular social media platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram like regular marketers do.
Users must always look for ratings and reviews before installing such types of apps as reviews can more effectively tell how good the app is. You can also visit the app developers’ account for further details. If there is only one app registered under their name, then you shouldn’t download the app. Because adware app developers generally have only one app listed under their name so that in case their account gets deactivated, they don’t suffer the loss of multiple apps.