Hertu20 on Nostr: # Malicious 'Vapor' Apps Target Android Users on Google Play: In March 2025, it was ...
# Malicious 'Vapor' Apps Target Android Users on Google Play:
In March 2025, it was reported that over 300 malicious Android applications, categorized as part of the "Vapor" campaign, have been downloaded 60 million times. These apps, which masqueraded as utilities like fitness trackers and QR code scanners, acted as adware and attempted to steal user credentials. Initially uncovered by IAS Threat Lab, the operation generated 200 million fraudulent ad requests daily.
Bitdefender later identified 331 malicious apps, particularly affecting users in Brazil, the U.S., Mexico, Turkey, and South Korea. The malware utilizes techniques to evade detection, including disabling the app's launcher and creating deceptive overlays to display ads. Users are advised to avoid unnecessary apps and regularly check installed applications to protect against these threats.
In March 2025, it was reported that over 300 malicious Android applications, categorized as part of the "Vapor" campaign, have been downloaded 60 million times. These apps, which masqueraded as utilities like fitness trackers and QR code scanners, acted as adware and attempted to steal user credentials. Initially uncovered by IAS Threat Lab, the operation generated 200 million fraudulent ad requests daily.
Bitdefender later identified 331 malicious apps, particularly affecting users in Brazil, the U.S., Mexico, Turkey, and South Korea. The malware utilizes techniques to evade detection, including disabling the app's launcher and creating deceptive overlays to display ads. Users are advised to avoid unnecessary apps and regularly check installed applications to protect against these threats.