When it comes to installing apps from the Google Play Store, we often assume that all the apps hosted by the platform are secure and trustworthy. However, it turns out that some apps slip through the cracks and end up being malicious. IT security solutions provider Dr.Web recently published a list of apps that have been downloaded by over 2 million Android users, only to later discover that they were actually harmful.

Four of the identified apps are disguised as harmless games but are actually HiddenAds malware. Once downloaded, they try to hide by using the Google Chrome icon or transparent icon images. These apps run silently in the background and bombard your phone’s browser with ads to generate revenue for the developers. The following apps fall into this category:

– Super Skibydi Killer (1,000,000 downloads)
– Agent Shooter (500,000 downloads)
– Rainbow Stretch (50,000 downloads)
– Rubber Punch 3D (500,000 downloads)

Another group of apps, known as the FakeApp family, aim to redirect users to investment scam websites. Some of these apps include:

– Eternal Maze (Yana Pospyelova) – 50,000 downloads
– Jungle Jewels (Vaibhav Wable) – 10,000 downloads
– Stellar Secrets (Pepperstocks) – 10,000 downloads
– Fire Fruits (Sandr Sevill) – 10,000 downloads
– Cowboy’s Frontier (Precipice Game Studios) – 10,000 downloads
– Enchanted Elixir (Acomadyi) – 10,000 downloads

Additionally, several apps from the notorious Joker family managed to infiltrate Google Play. These apps aim to trick users into signing up for premium paid services. The following apps were found on the app store:

– Love Emoji Messenger (Korsinka Vimoipan) – 50,000 downloads
– Beauty Wallpaper HD (fm0989184) – 1,000 downloads

Fortunately, Google Play has removed all the mentioned apps. However, if you have already downloaded any of them, it is essential to remove them from your phone. As a precautionary measure, you may want to scan your phone using Play Protect or a smartphone antivirus.

While it is a good practice to download apps from trusted sources, this incident serves as a reminder to always remain cautious and inspect apps before downloading them. Take the time to read user reviews and ensure that the app developer is reputable and trustworthy. Stay vigilant to protect your digital life from potential threats.