From Samsung to Google, Android smartphones are some of the most popular handsets around the world.
But if you use an Android, a new report may urge you to reassess which apps you have installed on your device.
Researchers from ZScaler have warned about a fake app that claims to be for ‘TikTok Pro’, which contains dangerous spyware.
In a blog about the app, ZScaler researcher Shivang Desai explained: “Upon installation, the spyware portrays itself as TikTok using the name TikTok Pro.
“As soon as a user tries to open the app, it launches a fake notification and soon the notification as well as the app icon disappears.
“This fake notification tactic is used to redirect the user’s attention, meanwhile the app hides itself, making the user believe the app to be faulty.”
Worryingly, once installed, the fake app can carry out a number of dangerous processes.
This including stealing your SMS messages, sending SMS messages, stealing your location, taking photos, calling phone numbers and stealing your Facebook credentials.
Mr Desai said: “Due to the ubiquitous nature of mobile devices and the widespread use of Android, it is very easy for attackers to victimise Android users.
“In such situations, mobile users should always take the utmost precautions while downloading any applications from the internet. It is very easy to trick victims to fall for such attacks.”
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Based on the findings, the researchers are urging users to be vigilant about the apps they install.
Make sure you only install apps from the Google Play Store, and never click on unknown links received through ads, SMS messages or emails.
Mr Desai added: “ We would also like to mention that if you come across an app hiding its icon, always try to search for the app in your device settings (by going to Settings -> Apps -> Search for icon that was hidden). In the case of this spyware, search for app named TikTok Pro.”
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