Bad antivirus apps on the Google Play Store |

According to ESET, millions of users are already trapped in the so-called anti-virus scam. […]

ESET researchers have again discovered in the Google Play Store applications claiming to be an antivirus for mobile devices running the Android operating system. According to ESET and Google security experts, these applications have been downloaded millions of times by users. These applications only simulate legitimate security solutions and do not protect the mobile device. Usually, these programs do not detect malware or do not deceive you. What these dubious, but very good, programs are the annoying ads of users, because it is a lucrative business for fraudsters. In addition, some of these applications get extended rights to the smartphone and have access to sensitive user data.

"Unfortunately, these supposed antivirus applications are still available on Google Play and have an impressive number of installations," says Lukas Stefanko, ESET Malware researcher. "Scammers are trying, among other things, to generate profits from advertising in applications, and ironically, some of these applications are at least a threat."

Already last year, ESET researchers had discovered 35 dubious applications that simply mimicked mobile security applications. These apps have been removed from the Google Play Store team. However, similar applications are again available on the Play Store and are installed millions of times by unsuspecting users. The mesh is the same. Users are fooled by false security. Scam artists simply seek to allow users to see the ads and reward them financially.

Two out of three virus scanners fail

In a recent study, the independent testing institute AV-Comparatives draws a similar conclusion. Of the 250 tested Android apps, only 80 have detected more than 30% of the viruses used for the test. Only 23, including ESET Mobile Security for Android, detected all malware and did not cause false positives.

That's how users recognize a trusted mobile security solution

For users, the situation is opaque. The best advice is to rely on well known names when selecting the antivirus for smartphone or tablet and read before testing in journals or renowned institutes such as AV-Comparatives, according to ESET. In general, users must also view the product pages before installing an application, including from official markets. For example, if there are only good or bad reviews, users need to take a closer look.