Avast: Android adware still on the rise this year

According to Avast, Android malware continues to be a major threat on tablets and smartphones. In the last five months, this threat level was at 45 percent. However, fake apps also ranked second at 16 percent, followed by banking Trojans at 10 percent. Other types of malware include downloaders, spyware and mobile ransomware. Adware is advertising that may masquerade as a legitimate app, but can also operate in the form of "ad fraud."

Adware and fake apps

Avast speaks of two types of adware: The traditional type is, for example, gaming, photo, and other lifestyle apps that entice users to download content. In most cases, however, users are then bombarded with further advertising outside of the app. The so-called ad fraud is about the fact that an adware can also start malicious activities in the background while downloading, such as out-of-context ads, ads in notifications, or other aggressive advertising techniques.

Fake apps are the second most widespread mobile threat. These are apps that pretend to be something they are not. Often, such apps are disguised as legitimate apps, such as a Covid-10 tracking app or an adblocker. Thus, the apps may perform unwanted functions that spy on the user, show him unwanted ads or expose him to malicious activities.

Tips in dealing with Android threats

In this context, Avast advises a few tips for dealing with malware on the smartphone: Users should only download official apps from app stores like Google Play. Sometimes the app ratings can also be an indication of whether something is wrong with an application. More stars usually indicate more functionality and less advertising. In addition, a look at the app's permissions can't hurt, or at least at the latest when an app suddenly asks for access to data that a certain app would not need as part of its functionality (for example, a flashlight app that asks for location information).

Source: Avast