Malware attack in the Android ecosystem has been as old as ever especially Joker malware. And now, it has resurfaced again.

About 17 apps on the Google Play store are found to be harboring Joker malware and users have been advised to uninstall them if any of those apps are installed on their android devices.

Malware

According to Zscaler Security Company, the apps in question were infected with the Joker malware. It steals SMS messages, contact lists, and device information, but the most serious threat it poses to users is automatic sign-ups to premium wireless application protocol (WAP) services. With WAP billing, users get a shock next time they receive their mobile phone bill as the service costs are charged directly to it.

The Joker malware circumvents the Google Play app vetting process through a combination of code tweaks, execution method variation, and changes to how it downloads the payload allowing it to function, steal information, and trigger the WAP service sign-ups. Google has removed the 17 infected apps from the Play Store and disabled them on devices where they are installed, thought to be in the region of 120,000 devices.

The list of apps includes:

  • All Good PDF Scanner
  • Mint Leaf Message-Your Private Message
  • Unique Keyboard – Fancy Fonts & Free Emoticons
  • Tangram App Lock
  • Direct Messenger
  • Private SMS
  • One Sentence Translator – Multifunctional Translator
  • Style Photo Collage
  • Meticulous Scanner
  • Desire Translate
  • Talent Photo Editor – Blur focus
  • Care Message
  • Part Message
  • Paper Doc Scanner
  • Blue Scanner
  • Hummingbird PDF Converter – Photo to PDF
  • All Good PDF Scanner*

If any of the aforementioned apps are already installed on your device, it is advisable to manually disable and uninstall it if possible.

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