A terrifying development has led to the Joker Malware’s return to the Google Play Store, where it has been discovered to be present in over 50 apps. For Android users, it’s one of the most important security issues. Continue reading to learn more about it.
Earlier last month, reports of the Joker Malware redistributing to Android devices began to surface. Zscaler Threatlabz has now verified that it has infected several Android apps. They are regularly being banned by Google and removed from the Play Store.
Using its trail signatures, this specific malware can exploit the official Google Play store to collect users’ personal information. You must take the required actions to stop its infection and entirely safeguard your Android smartphone or tablet.
Joker malware: What is it?
A Sleeceware is essentially what Joker Malware, also known as SysJoker, is. It was initially observed in 2017 when a large number of Android users were impacted by its undetected appearance. This threat plays around with the official Google Play Store to investigate Android devices.
It modifies the viral code, the way it runs, and the methods it uses to retrieve the payload to steal sensitive data such as SMS messages, device data, and contact information.
According to Android Headlines, this virus was first discovered in June and again in October 2021. Around 17,000 reports that were impacted by this malware were removed from the Play Store in 2020.
What is the Joker Malware’s Mechanism?
As it can cause financial harm to the victims, The Joker Malware has been the top pick of hackers and con artists. It began as an SMS scam but has since developed into a dynamic toolbox for hackers.
According to cyber security company Pradeo, “Joker is classed as Fleeceware” since its primary function is to spoof clicks and intercept SMS to secretly subscribe users to unwelcome paid premium services. Joker creates a very subtle footprint that can be challenging to find by utilizing as little code as possible and masking it completely. The spyware was discovered hidden in hundreds of apps during the last two years.
When the victim signs up, the threat’s codes are added to the ad web page, which then transfers pertinent data to a command and control (C2) server run by cyber criminals.
What potential Joker malware infection problems could there be?
Joker Malware used to focus on SMS frauds, but it has since developed into a more dangerous weapon for collecting people’s sensitive information covertly.
It can carry out the following tasks:
- Break security codes and one-time passwords
- SMS messages are sent and viewed without your knowledge.
- You can read and intercept notifications from any app.
- quietly capture screenshots of you without your knowledge
- Make calls as necessary
- Access your contact list without your consent
- jot down device details for upcoming assaults
- You must protect your Android device from this dreadful spyware.
You could suffer a significant loss of data or money if your mobile device is impacted.
Joker Malware Infected Apps List
The most recent Joker Malware strain has caused several apps to be blocked and removed from Google Play Store (dubbed Autolycus). The following is a list of such apps:
Universal PDF Scanner, Private Message, Blood Pressure Checker, Premium SMS, Light Messages, Funny Keyboard, Smart Messages, Text Emoji SMS, Themes Chat Messenger, Cool Keyboard, Memory Silent Camera, Custom-Themed Keyboard, Font Emoji Keyboard, Instant Messenger, Themes Photo Keyboard, Send SMS, Mini PDF Scanner, Fonts Emoji Keyboard, Smart SMS Messages, Personal Message, Fancy SMS, Creative Emoji Keyboard, Funny Emoji Message, Chat SMS, Professional Messages, Magic Photo Editor, All Photo Translators, Wow Translator, All Language Translator, Smile Emoji, Cool Messages, Chat Text SMS, Blood Pressure Diary, Emoji Theme Keyboard, Hi Text SMS, iMessager, Rich Theme Message, Camera Translator, Text SMS, Come Messages, Painting Photo Editor, Advanced SMS, Professional Messenger, Private Game Messages, Style Message, Timestamp Camera, Simple Note Scanner and Social Message.
