Security News > 2023 > March > Don’t be fooled by a pretty icon, malicious apps hide in plain sight

Malicious mobile devices apps tend to fall into a few categories - things that are popular, easy to use, and seemingly harmless.

Many malicious apps deliver some legitimate functionality, but just because a free app works, doesn't mean that it's not hiding ulterior motives.

Criminals often use encryption to hide their malicious code from reviewers, or they build in a delay, so the bad stuff doesn't show up until the app is published in the app store.

While some of these apps are legitimate, others may be malicious apps looking to capitalize on recent AI trends.

Malicious apps often target things that children and teens like, such as gaming, making videos, and managing social media.

The most common types of threats detected within the gaming category in 2022 were aggressive adware - apps that display excessive advertisements while using the app and even when you're not using it.

News URL

https://www.helpnetsecurity.com/2023/03/02/malicious-mobile-devices-apps/