Smartphone users have received an urgent warning about downloading apps that may contain invasive malware that could drain your bank account, with thousands already believed to be at risk of attack.

SharkBot, which can steal login details and banking information, has made a comeback to the Google Play Store, after cybercriminals infiltrated intense security measures – apps only getting infected with the bug once downloaded and installed.

The virus, which first surfaced in March earlier this year, has made its way onto two apps which Android users are urged to remove immediately for their own safety.

According to reports, both the Mister Phone Cleaner app and the Kylhavy Mobile Security app were found to be infected with the malware, according to Fox-IT software experts who made the discovery first.

Google has since banned these apps, but anyone who still has the software on their phone or tablet should act quickly to avoid becoming a victim of cybercrime.

Once unknowingly installed, SharkBot can funnel money from mobile bank accounts, while creating fake logins for online services so hackers can steal sensitive information such as usernames and passwords. .

Speaking about the attack, Alberto Segura of Fox-IT said, “This new version asks the victim to install the malware as a fake update to keep the antivirus safe from threats.

“We found two active SharkbotDopper apps in Google Play Store, each with 10,000 and 50,000 installs. On August 22, 2022, Fox-IT’s Threat Intelligence team found a new sample of Sharkbot with version 2.25; control mentioned above.

“This version of Sharkbot introduced a new feature to steal session cookies from victims who log into their bank account.”

If you think you downloaded these apps, be sure to delete them and check any permissions you may have granted them.

It’s also worth checking your bank account for any strange transactions, whether small or large.

How to delete apps on Android:

  • Open the Google Play Store app.
  • At the top right, tap the profile icon.
  • Tap Manage apps & devices. Manage.
  • Tap the name of the app you want to remove.
  • Tap Uninstall.