Google removed an app from its Play Store, but not before it had been downloaded more than a million times.
The app, called PIP Pic Camera Photo Editor, was found to contain nasty malware that is perfectly capable of stealing Facebook credentials including usernames and passwords. This could allow hackers to access accounts, steal personal data, and send scam messages to contacts.
Until earlier this week, the photo-editing software was still available for download and installation, but Google has now blocked access after being alerted to its risks.
Unfortunately, this news will not be a consolation for the millions of people who have already installed PIP Pic Camera Photo Editor on their devices.
And if you're one of the unlucky ones, it's a good idea to delete the app from your devices and change your Facebook password without delay.
This threat was discovered by the Dr. Web, which isn't the only app that's causing some concern.
According to the security company's latest report, there are four other apps that all contain malware capable of displaying unwanted ads, reducing battery life and even making unauthorized changes to the phone itself.
Apps include: Wild & Exotic Animal Wallpaper, ZodiHoroscope, PIP Camera 2022 and Magnifier Flashlight.
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| Android warning: Google bans a widely popular app that should be deleted now! |
Some of these apps have now been removed by Google, as ZodiHoroscope and PIP Camera 2022 are no longer available for download. As with all apps, before you start downloading anything to your device, it's worth checking with the person who developed the software and then reading as many reviews as possible.
Other users often warn about issues with apps, and if you suddenly start seeing endless 1-star ratings, you know you need to walk away.
It's also a good idea to use Google Play Protect to help keep your apps safe and your data private.
Google Play Protect scans your apps and devices for any malicious behavior and performs a security check on apps from the Play Store before you download them. It also scans your device for potentially harmful applications from other sources.
Source: Express
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