While Google is considered a security expert, it appears that the Google Play Store is not as safe as it should be. Recently Quick Heal Security Lab detected Hiddad Malware on Google Play store. Multiple applications were infected, and, after users installed them they displayed ads that covered the entire screen. It was difficult to uninstall these apps, as they did not show up in app manager. An app that had Hiddad Malware usually appeared under the name “Google Play Service, Google Play Store”, and it used icons from trustable applications, such as Youtube.
Uninstalling the apps
If you have one of these applications you should uninstall it as sooner as possible. Here is how you can do this.
- First of all, go to Settings and open App Manager.
- Look for Google Play Store and identify the fake app.
If you are not sure which application should be uninstalled, you can get a program to help you. There are numerous antivirus programs that are designed to detect malware and remove it. This tool will identify the risky applications and you will be asked whether you want to uninstall them.
Staying safe
While unwanted ads aren’t that dangerous, you should remember that risky apps can even end up damaging your phone or threatening your data. This is the reason why you should try to avoid fake applications.
Before you download any kind of app you must take a look at its description. If there is something out of place, don’t install it. You should also take a look at the name of the developer. It is recommended that you install apps from well-known developers since those are usually safer. Reviews and ratings can also help you find out whether an app is risky. Nonetheless, remember that they can be fake as well, so be careful.
Henry Lares is still early into his career as tech reporter but has already had his work published in many major publications including Tech Crunch and the Huffington Post. In regards to academics, Henry earned an engineering degree from Apex Technical School. Henry has a passion for emerging technology and covers upcoming products and breakthroughs in science and tech.