The Joker “virus” is back to haunt Google. It’s malicious code lurking in Android apps. It has been found in 14 apps according to Kaspersky Android malware analyst Tatyana Shishkova. In a series of Tweets, Shishkova named Android apps infected with the virus dangerous. For those who don’t know, Joker is one of the most persistent malware that keeps coming back to the Google Play Store. Data stealing malware ends up in Google’s official app store by modifying its code, execution method, or payload recovery techniques. It is said to steal user data including SMS, contact list, device information, OTPs and more. Joker malware was first discovered in 2017, in 2019 Google published a blog post about its long battle with Joker malware. However, although the threat of Joker malware has decreased since 2019, it continues to appear in Android apps every few months. Here are the new apps found with the malware that Android users should remove from their phones immediately.
114
Super-Click VPN
It is a free VPN app. Removed from Google Play Store, APK files are available.
214
Volume-increasing hearing aid
As the name suggests, the app can operate your smartphone as a hearing aid.
314
Animated bubble effects on battery charging
This one shows cool animation effects while charging your battery.
414
Flashlight Flash Alert on call
It is one of those flash light alert apps that show alert during calls and texting.
514
Easy PDF scanner
This is a PDF scanner.
614
Smart TV remote control
Smart TV Remote is a universal TV remote control app on Google Play.
714
Halloween Coloring Pages
The app is a Halloween coloring game.
814
Classic Emoji Keyboard
The app claims to offer over 3000 emojis.
914
Volume amplifier Lighter sound equalizer
This is a volume amplifier equalizer app for Android. It claims to improve the quality of your Android phones.
ten14
Superhero effect
This is a special effects app. Get fire, lighting, energy, and laser effects.
1114
Battery Charging Live Wallpaper
This will tell you when your battery is fully charged, the goal is for you to be able to unplug your phone / tablet.
1214
Dazzling keyboard
The app is for those looking for a custom keyboard.
1314
EmojiOne Keyboard
Another keyboard app, it has gesture inputs, cloud prediction, and voice input.
1414
Now QRCode Scan
This app claims to turn the mobile phone into a professional multi-functional barcode reader.
