Android’s biggest malware threat can be downloaded straight off the Google Play Store

16 May 2016

Tens of thousands of Android users are thought to have accidentally downloaded malware from the Google Play Store.

Named “Viking Horde”, after one of the games the malware mimics, the “malware campaign” consists of a number of games and apps that appear almost identical to other popular downloads.

Upon installation, the device will automatically join a botnet and provide full access to parts of the devices it infects – potentially leading to theft of personal data.

These fake apps are readily available through Google Play, and can be downloaded on nearly every Android device.

The apps appear to evade Google’s malware scanners and several of the games have been downloadable for over a month.

Security firm Check Point confirm that the malware is incredibly persistent and almost impossible to get rid of.


More gaming news

Hidden PlayStation 4 features only power users know about

Games you can play this week – danger and demons

Nvidia GTX 1080 ultimate guide – performance and specifications

You have read 1 out of 5 free articles. Log in or register for unlimited access.

Read now

The best gaming website in South Africa
MyGaming proudly displays the “FAIR” stamp of the Press Council of South Africa, indicating our commitment to adhere to the Code of Ethics for Print and online media which prescribes that our reportage is truthful, accurate and fair. Should you wish to lodge a complaint about our news coverage, please lodge a complaint on the Press Council’s website, www.presscouncil.org.za or email the complaint to [email protected] Contact the Press Council on 011 4843612.