Beware of this fake antivirus app with over 1 cr downloads: Find out why it’s dangerous

If you think having an antivirus app on your Android phone makes your device safe, it’s time to rethink your strategy. Cybersecurity company Quick Heal Technologies has revealed a fake app named “AntiVirus – Virus Cleaner,” which has amassed over 1 crore downloads on the Google Play Store. While it may appear to be a reliable protector for your device, this app is anything but safe, potentially jeopardising your personal information instead of safeguarding it.

The presence of such a popular yet misleading app raises serious concerns about mobile security. Many users trust antivirus applications to keep their devices safe from threats, but “AntiVirus – Virus Cleaner” is an alarming reminder that not all apps are what they claim to be. Let’s dive into what makes this app dangerous and how you can protect yourself from similar threats.

Also read: What is Necro Trojan? The new malware that spreads via Google Play Store and has already affected over 11 mn devices

Why is AntiVirus – Virus Cleaner dangerous?

According to Quick Heal, “AntiVirus – Virus Cleaner” pretends to be a genuine antivirus solution but fails to provide any real protection. Rather than defending your device against malware and viruses, the app primarily focuses on displaying ads and boosting its download numbers. It does offer features like “Scan Device and Application,” but these options are misleading. The app doesn’t genuinely scan your device for threats, instead, it relies on a static list of apps, marked as either malicious or safe, which has not been updated during their investigation.

Once installed, you’ll notice that the app displays a different icon than the one seen in the Play Store. To further mislead users, the app generates fake virus alerts, falsely labeling nearly every app on your device as “risky.” This tactic creates a false sense of urgency, making users more likely to rely on the app for protection.

Also read: High-risk security flaw found in iPhones and other Apple products: Is your device safe?

What you need to do?

A closer look at the app’s package files revealed suspicious JSON files, suggesting manipulative practices. These files contain a whitelist of popular apps like Facebook and Instagram, along with the app’s package name to evade detection.  The app has been flagged as “Android.Blacklister (PUP)” with specific identifiers for its package and hash.

To safeguard yourself from deceptive mobile apps like this one, follow these simple tips before downloading any application:

• Read the app’s description carefully.
• Verify the developer’s name and website to check their credibility.
• Look at reviews and ratings to understand other users’ experiences.
• Avoid downloading apps from third-party stores, as they often are fake apps.