google play – PSafe Blog

Xavier Malware Found in Androids Can Steal Your Information

PSafe Newsroom — Mon, 10 Jul 2017 17:00:43 +0000

Although each Google Play app submission must pass through a machine-aided and human approved review process to determine the safety of the app, viruses continue to plague app store users. Beware of the most recent ad library-based trojan, nicknamed Xavier. It bypassed the Google Play security system through the installation of free apps and was downloaded on Android smartphones across the globe. The Full Virus Scan feature could have protected Android users from this attack, which is why you should download now for future security threats:

This new version of the AdDown malware family is present in as many as 800 separate apps available through the Google Play store, according to a recent study from Trend Micro. Security researchers detected the malicious ad library in a wide range of applications, from utility apps such as photo editors to downloadable ringtones. While instances of hacking through this trojan were most successful in the Philippines and Vietnam, Android users in the U.S. and Europe also experienced difficulties stemming from infected apps.

How it Works

This malicious ad library reaches consumers through free apps which rely on advertising to generate revenue. The malware is preinstalled on these seeming innocuous applications to gain access to users’ phones and personal data. Once inside the phone, Xavier is able to download and execute codes from a remote server while relying on layered encryption tools, emulator detection, and a self-protecting mechanism to cover these tracks. Once it is able to download the code from the remote server, Xavier is then able to access and transmit sensitive data from the smartphone back to the same server.

What it Can Take

Thanks to these sophisticated encryption and protection methods, Xavier is able to access smartphone users’ personal data virtually undetected. While these protection measures are at work, the trojan is able to access, encrypt and transmit users’ email addresses, installed apps, OS version, the device’s ID and device manufacturer. Beyond posing a threat to the security of Android users’ personal data, Xavier also enables hackers to run malicious code on the compromised device and allows them to install APK files on the phone’s hardware.

How to Protect Yourself

To protect Androids and the personal information stored on them from Xavier, users should take extra care when downloading new apps. Security experts suggest sticking to trusted application and thoroughly reading app reviews and permissions before downloading unknown apps. You should only grant permissions that are necessary to the application’s function and consider implementing the Full Virus Scan feature and leaving it on at all times on your Android device. With Full Virus Scan, you can also do scheduled scans so you know your device is constantly being monitored.

Are Secret Keys in Google Play Still an Issue for Users?

PSafe Newsroom — Mon, 26 Jun 2017 15:00:50 +0000

It’s much easier and faster for app developers to publish an app on Google Play than on competitor’s app stores, which is why the Play store remains a popular place for the latest apps. Because of this, though, some malicious apps can get through. Thousands of users may download a malicious app before Google is able to remove it from the Play store. To ensure that your device stays protected against malicious apps, you should scan your device for malware after downloading a new app. Use Full Virus Scan to check your phone and SD card for any hidden threats:

A few years ago, one of these security threats included the discovery of secret keys hidden in Android apps. This was a major issue in 2014, and it left many worried about the security of their online accounts and how safe their private information really was. In this instance, it was discovered that many apps stored secret keys (such as password and username data) in their app software, which left users’ data vulnerable. This user data could then be used to steal data from Facebook or Amazon, among other websites. The Airbnb app, for example, left users’ private information exposed, which then revealed connected services such as Google, Yahoo, or LinkedIn.

Back then, Android app developers didn’t have to submit their app for review before publishing their app on Google Play. Now, app developers must have Google approve their app before it can be published. This helps to cut down on malicious and unsafe apps in the Play store — yet that doesn’t mean that the Play store is 100% secure. Hidden malware, such as the Judy malware, is being discovered all the time.

App developers have been strongly advised over the years against storing secret keys in apps because of the security risks involved to themselves and their users. Thus, this issue should no longer be a concern when using major apps downloaded from the Play store. Google has made many efforts over the years to direct developers to remove secret keys from their software. Android also has a Keystore system for developers to use to make their apps more secure for their users. This helps to prevent unauthorized individuals from accessing key data.

Is it Safe to Download Apps Outside of Google Play?

PSafe Newsroom — Sat, 27 May 2017 16:00:42 +0000

Your Android is set-up to only download its apps from the Google Play store. There are several reasons for this. Google does get 30% from every app sold, but their motivations go beyond financial profit. Downloading an app outside the Google Play store opens you up to security risks, such as ransomware and other nasty viruses. Google Play’s system of vetting apps before they go public is designed to help keep your phone safe from these threats. Still, malware can infect apps in the Play store. Click here to check your device for threats:

By using Full Virus Scan, you can scan every file on your Android and SD card for corrupted apps. After doing a sweep with Full Virus Scan, you might be wondering if downloading an app outside of Google Play is really such a risky idea. So, is it safe to download apps from third-party stores?

The Short Answer is: No, It’s Not Safe

Android users should know that downloading an app from outside Google Play is inherently unsafe. In late 2016, an estimated 1.3 million Android phones were attacked by a malware called “Gooligan.” How did Gooligan find its way onto these users’ phones, you ask? Through an app! More specifically, it was an app that wasn’t downloaded through the Google Play store.

Before a new app becomes available in the Google Play store, Google checks the app for malware and any other threats to Android users. If you download an app from elsewhere, these protective measures don’t exist.

If You Insist on Straying from Google Play

From a safety point of view, it’s unwise to encourage an Android user to download apps outside of Google Play. However, if you still insist on downloading unvetted apps, here are some safety measures you should follow:

Know the download source. For instance, there is an option to download WhatsApp directly from the app’s official website. This is probably a safe source since WhatsApp is a well-known, trustworthy creator of apps.
Read user reviews of the app before downloading. If you’re unsure of an app’s source, do your research. A few simple Google searches should lead you to other Android users’ reviews of the app.
Remove the app immediately if you encounter suspicious activity. Any inkling of faulty or destructive behavior from the app? Delete it immediately! You don’t want to take more unnecessary risks with your phone’s security.

Over a million Android phones infected with a strain of malware called Gooligan

PSafe Newsroom — Fri, 02 Dec 2016 20:24:21 +0000

From the beginning of August, Gooligan strain has infected 1.3 million Android phones, stealing tokens from devices in order to impersonate the user’s Google account. The motive? To force users to download apps as a part of an advertising fraud scheme. The strain has been generating as much as $320,000 per month and still spreading. Latest figures estimate that 13,000 new infections are happening daily. PSafe has the ability to locate previously unidentified viruses to keep users safe. Check to see if your account is safe by clicking the button below:

This particular malware can do a number of things on the users’ phones, including ranking apps, downloading apps, stealing photos and files from Google Docs and even has the ability of posting illegitimate app reviews. Users are misled into downloading this malware as it poses as legitimate software from a variety of places, including porn sites and 3rd party app stores.

PSafe has identified more than 4,000 different strands of this same malware, meaning that the hacker used an original file and changed some parts of the code to generate new signatures in an attempt to bypass virus checkers that rely solely on signature checking. The latest strain has the ability to create duplicate versions that can’t be blocked by conventional antivirus software. Generally, it takes some time for AVs to update malware databases, so all the hacker needs to do is duplicate the virus during that process to be untraceable.

PSafe’s Security Specialists have some tips about how users can protect their phones:

Only install certified apps: The main way to reduce these type of risks is to confirm if the app is available on the official Google Play Store.

Pay attention to permissions: The permissions requested of you should be compatible with the app’s needs.

Use strong passwords: Weak passwords are ideal for hackers. The best solution is to use a strong password with more than 10 characters, including lowercase and capital letters, numbers and special characters. Users should also change their password regularly.

By scanning your device now with PSafe Total, you are ensuring the safety of all personal information, data and files. Tap the button below to run a complete scan:

Fake Retail Apps Stream in for iOS Users Before Holidays

PSafe Newsroom — Wed, 09 Nov 2016 14:15:56 +0000

The fraudulent apps have been posing as everything from chain retailers like Foot Locker all the way to high end brands including Jimmy Choo and Ferragamo.

There are serious risks associated with rogue apps including credit card fraud and other personal information entered upon purchase. With Black Friday and Cyber Monday just around the corner, users are becoming more susceptible to digital threats.

Apple has already removed several apps on a case by case basis but unfortunately for users, removals for apps aren’t made until the said threat is reported.

What You Need to Know About Google Play’s Family Library

PSafe Newsroom — Mon, 07 Nov 2016 17:49:07 +0000

Earlier this year, Google Play launched its family library in the US, Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, and the UK. While the standard Google Play library means that each individual sets up their own account and buys an app, a book, a song, a tv show, or a movie to be downloaded to their phone or tablet separately, with the family library, families are able to share their downloads from the Google Play store with one another.

This is a great way for families to share data with one another; however, the family library only allows six members per group — including a family manager that must be 18 years of age or older and can approve or disapprove of any purchases made by family members that are under 17 years of age. You can also only switch up your group once a year. So make sure you pick your six favorite family members and set them all up at one time.

Google Play’s family library allows your family to automatically add every download to every device. This is great if everyone in your family is interested in the same entertainment. However, if you are the parents of younger children, you may want to turn off the automatic adding feature so that you can watch your rated R movies without worrying that they’re seeing anything inappropriate.

You should also be aware that not everything from the Google Play store is sharable. Free apps and in-app purchases are not able to be shared and not every paid app is able to be shared. That’s alright, though; with so many other things to share, free apps aren’t missed.

While you’re sharing your favorite movies and books with your family, make sure that you download PSafe Total on every device. With its unbeatable AV protection, you can rest easy knowing that your devices are protected.

PSafe identifies more than 500 apps infected by virus on Google Play Store

PSafe Newsroom — Fri, 21 Oct 2016 18:41:32 +0000

When even the Google Play Store has viruses, it’s important to step up your device security. PSafe identified more than 500 apps infected by virus on Android’s official App Store. Because of this security loophole, we recommend all PSafe Total users who downloaded apps recently, click below to remove threats.

According to Emilio Simoni, PSafe’s security manager, famous games and social networks’ accessory or add-on apps used for Minecraft and Snapchat, are main targets so it’s important to stay completely protected. Apps for kids are under the crosshair for hackers. The kid app called Coloring Book, for example, is one of the infected apps. The list also features Mobi Music Player, a free digital music service, and the Mobi Cleaner, a cleanup app.

PSafe Total app has already blocked almost 2,000 attacks affecting American users’ cellphones. In Brazil and Mexico, this number reached a successful 45,000. In order for your device to avoid such breach, it’s best to avoid the apps on the list above and keep a reliable antivirus installed – it’s your only defense against attacks like this.

How to Set Up Fingerprint Authorization For Google Play

PSafe Newsroom — Thu, 22 Sep 2016 21:46:22 +0000

Android can have some problems with Google Play purchases, problems that you can solve with a few simple tweaks. However, Android’s latest version also gives you new options for keeping your Google Play purchases secure. The newest Android system – Android 6.0 Marshmallow – running on a Nexus 5X or Nexus 6P phone lets you better secure your Google Play purchases and information with a fingerprint password. Here, we’ll give you the rundown about how to add fingerprint authentication to your Google Play.

Registering Your Fingerprint

Navigate to your “Settings” app on your phone.
Tap on the “Security” button.
Click on “Nexus Imprint” button.
Click on the “Add Fingerprint” option.
You will be prompted to set up a backup PIN or password in case the phone can’t read your fingerprint at one point or another.
You will be prompted to put your finger on the sensor several times. Adjust your finger accordingly so the sensor can accurately read your print accurately.
Once the sensor has read your fingerprint, it will ask you to add another fingerprint or close.

After you’ve set up fingerprint security, you can add fingerprint authentication to your Google Play purchases.

Here’s how:

Open the “Google Play store” app.
Open “Settings” in the Google Play store.
Under Settings, scroll down to “Fingerprint Authentication” and click on the box next to it to put in a check mark.
Now, whenever you want to access Google Play store, you’ll have to authenticate it with the fingerprint password you’ve set on your Nexus phone. Whenever you make a new purchase on Google Play, you will be prompted to press your fingerprint on the sensor, rather than entering your password.
If you want to remove the password authentication and return to a password or PIN, repeat steps one through three and then uncheck the box next to “Fingerprint authentication” in step 3.

If you want to keep your favorite Google Play purchases running without interruption, you need to take extra measures. Your first step is downloading PowerPRO. PSafe’s Internet Booster speeds up your Internet speed by closing applications running in the background of your phone. Secure all of your Google Play purchases and then watch them with zero lag time with PSafe.

What’s New to the Google Play Book Shop

PSafe Newsroom — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 21:53:32 +0000

Sometimes you just want to curl up with a good book. Fortunately, the Google Play Books Store makes it easy. You can access a vast selection of books right from your Android cell phone. Separated by different genres, as well as sub-divisions that include various comic book genres, and children’s books, there’s something for everyone.

With so many choices, it can seem overwhelming. Where do you begin? Read on for new titles to enter the Google Play Books Store.

Curious Minds: A Knight and Moon Novel by Janet Evanovich and Phoef Sutton
New York Times best-selling author Janet Evanovich partners up with Emmy-winning writer Phoef Sutton in a new series of mysteries sure to please any Stephanie Plum fans. The story centers around several characters: Emerson Knight, an introverted, socially backward man, who has the good fortune to be rich and handsome, and Riley Moon, a recent Harvard Business grad, who lands a job as a junior analyst with a mega-bank. Her first task is to stay on top of the wealthy Emerson Knight. Simple questions about missing funds turns into a mystery involving a missing person, missing gold, and an across the country quest.

The Girl with the Lower Back Tattoo by Amy Schumer
This Emmy-award winning actress, comedian, and writer has cooked up a book of her own. It’s a tell-all tale of her teen years, her family, her relationships, and the things that have happened to make her who she is. It’s touching, it’s heartfelt, and it’s humorous. From her hit series to her feature film to her frequently sold-out comedic performances, this book is everything about Amy Schumer that you love.

Three Sisters, Three Queens by Philippa Gregory
Betrayal, danger, loss, passion – fans of historical fiction will enjoy another winning title from prolific writer Phillipa Gregory. No one tells the tale of the Tudor court like Gregory. This time, the story centers on Katherine of Aragon, her sister Mary, and their older sister Margaret. Set against each other through political alliances, the three sisters rule England, France, and Scotland. From husband stealing to killing a husband, these sisters discover that fate holds far more than bearing heirs.

Don’t miss a page. Keep your Android cell phone battery charged and ready to go with PowerPRO by PSafe. Instantly know how well your battery is doing and what apps are draining it away.

Here Are Some of the Best Songs On Google Play Right Now

PSafe Newsroom — Tue, 06 Sep 2016 20:56:19 +0000

Most of today’s top hits are infectious and cater to all audiences. All the songs below are available for $1.29 on Google Play Music in the “Most Popular Songs” section. For those new to this streaming service, they offer a free 90-day trial to test their Unlimited program out, which is $9.99 per month after that. Here are some of the current hits.

1. “Closer” by The Chainsmokers ft. Halsey

Some songs provide a narrative, and this is one of them. A story of rediscovered love coupled with a smoother pop beats makes this one of the top songs right now.

1. “CAN’T STOP THE FEELING!” by Justin Timberlake

This song is originally from the DreamWorks animated film “Trolls” and has been out for a while, but it’s a feel-good tune that will stay popular until the last of the summer heat vanishes.

3. The “Suicide Squad” movie soundtrack

Tracks from this album pepper the top of Google Play’s list of most popular songs. Artists featured on this album include Twenty One Pilots, Skrillex and Rick Ross, Kehlani, and Eminem.

4. “Rise” by Katy Perry

The Olympics may be over, but Katy Perry’s most recent hit still serves as the perfect workout song or motivational anthem. This song comes in at number 8 on the charts.

5. “Cheap Thrills” by Sia

Another perfect weekend anthem. The music video has a distinct “old school” vibe, with a black-and-white TV and happy jitterbug dancers dancing to this modern hit.

6. “Send My Love (To Your New Lover)” by Adele

Grammy award-winning Adele released her third album last year, but her songs continue to top charts a year later.

7. “Ride” by Twenty One Pilots

Twenty One Pilots is on their fourth album, which is packed full of other chart-topping hits including “Stressed Out” and “Tear in My Heart” among many others.