Despite Google’s efforts to crack down on so-called “fleeceware” apps, a new report from Avast finds that these malicious applications are still very much alive and well on the Play Store. Fleeceware apps are typically disguised as benign or even useful applications, but once installed they quickly rack up enormous fees by locking the user out of their device or bombarding them with ads. In some cases, these apps can even steal personal data or track user activity.
Google has been working to remove these apps from the Play Store, but a significant number are still available for download. And while the majority of users are likely safe as long as they avoid downloading sketchy-looking apps, it’s still important to be aware of the dangers posed by fleeceware. So far in 2019, Avast has found more than 1,000 fleeceware apps on the Play Store, and the number is only growing. Be sure to exercise caution when downloading any app from the Play Store, and if you suspect that an app may be malicious, report it to Google immediately.
what is the app store for android
The App Store for Android is a digital distribution service operated by Google. It serves as the official store for the Android operating system, allowing users to browse and download applications developed with the Android SDK and published through Google. The store offers both free and paid apps.
Applications are available through the App Store for Android website, or can be downloaded directly to an Android device using the Google Play Store app. As of December 2017, the store has over 2.8 million apps available. The store is available in 155 countries and territories. In addition to apps, the store offers movies, books, and music.
What is fleeceware and how does it work?
Fleeceware is a type of malicious software that disguised as a benign or even useful application, but once installed, it quickly racks up enormous fees by locking the user out of their device or bombarding them with ads. In some cases, these apps can even steal personal data or track user activity. Fleeceware apps are typically found on app stores, such as the Google Play Store.
Google has been working to remove these apps from the Play Store, but a significant number are still available for download. exercise caution when downloading any app from the Play Store, and if you suspect that an app may be malicious, report it to Google immediately.
The dangers of downloading fleeceware
The dangers of downloading fleeceware apps from the Play Store should not be underestimated. To stay safe, always be sure to exercise caution when downloading any app, and report any suspicious apps to Google. For more information on fleeceware and how to protect yourself from these malicious applications, visit the Avast website.
How to avoid downloading fleeceware apps
The best way to avoid downloading fleeceware apps is to exercise caution when downloading any app from the Play Store. If an app seems suspicious, do some research on it before downloading. You can also check reviews and ratings to see if other users have had bad experiences with the app. Finally, if you suspect that an app may be malicious, report it to Google immediately.
If you have already downloaded a fleeceware app, the best thing to do is to uninstall it immediately and change any passwords that you may have used with the app. You should also run a virus scan on your device to check for any malicious software that may have been installed along with the app.
Examples of popular fleeceware apps
Some popular examples of fleeceware apps include Weather Live, Battery Saver Pro, and Cache Cleaner-DU Speed Booster (booster & cleaner). These apps have been downloaded millions of times and have been known to rack up hundreds of dollars in fees.