Amazon Appstore used to spread Android malware — delete this malicious app right now

Tom's Guide - Dec 19th, 2024

McAfee Labs discovered a malicious app, posing as a BMI calculator, on the Amazon Appstore. The app secretly recorded users' screens and collected sensitive data, including text messages, without uploading them to a server. Despite its removal from the store, users must manually delete it from their devices. To avoid such threats, users should verify app legitimacy through reviews and developer credibility and use security apps like Google Play Protect.

Malware

Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

7.0

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article provides a clear warning about a malicious app discovered on the Amazon Appstore, backed by credible sources and offering practical advice for Android users. However, it could benefit from more balanced perspectives and transparency regarding the sources and potential conflicts of interest.

Accuracy

The article accurately reports on the discovery of a malicious app by McAfee Labs and provides practical advice for users. However, it lacks specific details about the app's impact and the extent of its distribution, which could enhance factual precision.

Balance

The article primarily focuses on the malicious app and its implications without exploring broader perspectives or potential counterarguments, such as the effectiveness of app store security measures or responses from Amazon or the app developer.

Clarity

The article is well-structured and uses clear language, making it easy to follow. It provides actionable advice for users, although the tone occasionally assumes a casual style that might affect perceived neutrality.

Source quality

The article cites McAfee Labs and BleepingComputer, which are reputable sources in cybersecurity. However, additional sources or direct statements from Amazon or 'PT Visionet Data Internasional' could strengthen the credibility and reliability of the information.

Transparency

The article does not disclose any potential conflicts of interest or affiliations. It could enhance transparency by providing more information about the author's expertise or any potential biases related to the topic.