Google Removes 50 Android Applications

On July 21, 2022, The Scotsman reported that Google has banned 50 Android applications from the Playstore.

The applications were blocked when an IT security firm called Zscaler discovered that they had stolen personal information and intercepted private texts. It was also discovered that these programs forced users to subscribe to plans.

It was discovered that all of the programs included 'virulent' malware, including the Joker bug.

The Joker bug employs covert malware that inadvertently registers users up for expensive subscription plans.

When they were discovered, Zscaler alerted the Google Android Security team, and they were withdrawn from the Google Play Store.

The removed applications are as follows:

• Simple Note Scanner, Universal PDF Scanner, Private Messenger, Premium SMS, Smart Messages, Text Emoji SMS, Blood Pressure Checker, Funny Keyboard, Memory Silent Camera, Custom Themed Keyboard, Light Messages, Themes Photo Keyboard, Send SMS, Themes Chat Messenger, Instant Messenger, Cool Keyboard, Fonts Emoji Keyboard, Mini PDF Scanner, Smart SMS Messages, Creative Emoji Keyboard, Fancy SMS, Fonts Emoji Keyboard (2), Personal Message, Funny Emoji Message, Magic Photo Editor, Professional Messages, All Photo Translator, Chat SMS, Smile Emoji, Wow Translator, All Language Translate, Cool Messages, Blood Pressure Diary, Chat Text SMS, Hi Text SMS, Emoji Theme Keyboard, iMessager, Text SMS, Camera Translator, Come Messages, Painting Photo Editor, Rich Theme Message, Quick Talk Message, Advanced SMS, Professional Messenger, Classic Game Messenger, Style Message, Private Game Messages, Timestamp Camera, Social Message.

Source: The Scotsman