Android apps stores are being flooded by 64 new versions of Joker malware

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Malware for mobile devices have been around for a while, but the one operating system targeted the most would be Android. More importantly, there's a new wave of malware that is flooding Android app stores recently. Specifically, variants of the malware family known as 'Joker'.

According to TechSpot (via Zimperium), Android-based app stores (including Google Play Store) are targeted by apps hiding one of 64 variants of the Joker malware. These are essentially trojans that do have actual features but hide malicious codes that can do things like steal your SMS information and using it to subscribe to premium services, such as Maxis Unlimited for ringtones (yes the service still exists lol). If you want more details, you can check out Zimperium's blog post.

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Flowchart describing how the Joker malware works

Google has begun cracking down on such apps on the Google Play Store, but third-party app stores may not have taken the same level of initiative. Anyway, we advise you to be careful when downloading apps and to scan them with an updated mobile anti-virus first.

Speaking of which, do you have an anti-virus app on your phone? What other cybersecurity measures do you employ to protect your devices? Do share them with us in the comments below and stay tuned to TechNave.com for more news like this.