Google is implementing stricter security measures against malicious apps on Android, potentially affecting app compatibility in 2025. This move aims to protect users from threats like the recently discovered 'FireScam' malware, which disguises itself as a Telegram Premium app to perform surveillance. While these changes prioritize user safety, they may alienate power users who rely on sideloading apps. Google's open ecosystem, while a strength, has also made it vulnerable to malware.
If you have a recent Android phone, then 2025 is the year your device locks down. There is a serious risk that apps you use daily will stop working. And if you have an older device, then it may be even worse. Google is finally cracking down on the scourge of malicious apps that plague its ecosystem, and the impact should be severe.
Sideloading apps from outside Play Store is such a core part of Android’s DNA that many users will rally hard against such changes. Asputs it, “these tighter security measures protect average users from malicious apps but risk alienating power users, amateur developers, modders, and enthusiasts who depend on Android's flexibility… the backlash to these changes quickly becomes apparent.”
But Google has little choice. Android’s open ecosystem is its Achilles heel. And so it is with the latest spyware warning that has just been issued. Another dangerous app mimicking a regular one is putting users at risk.
First, the app you need to avoid or delete is “Telegram Premium,” an app cloaked in the look and feel of the real billion-user messenger. The dropper package is “GetAppsRu.apk.” This is yet another example of copycat apps using phishing lures to trick users into installing or updating popular, trusted apps from outside the regular ecosystem—you must never do that. Chrome, Facebook, WhatsApp and similar apps should always be installed and updated from within the Play Store.
ANDROID MALWARE SECURITY GOOGLE PLAY STORE SPYWARE
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
The 2025 Android phone I’m most looking forward to isn’t from Samsung or GoogleGoogle and Samsung are all set for big smartphone releases in 2025. But the Android phone I'm most looking forward to won't be made by either company.
Read more »
Google Pixel Tablet: The Ultimate Android Tablet for 2025Google Pixel Tablet, released in May 2024, is a top-tier Android tablet boasting impressive features. Its Tensor G2 chip delivers lightning-fast processing, while the 11-inch, 2560 x 1600 resolution screen offers stunning visuals and adaptive brightness. Google AI features like Gemini Chat and Help me write enhance user experience. The tablet excels at both productivity and entertainment, with seamless multitasking, Google TV app, and crystal-clear audio from its four built-in speakers. It also functions as a smart home command center, controlling lights, locks, and security cameras. The optional Charging Speaker Dock elevates the experience, transforming the tablet into a high-quality speaker.
Read more »
Penn State 2025 Football Schedule: Penn State-Oregon Game Scheduled for 2025Penn State's 2025 football schedule got a sneak peek with the release of the Penn State vs. Oregon game, which also could be the White Out.
Read more »
BREAKING: Bruins' 2025 2025 Football Schedule RevealedThe Big Ten announced its football schedule for the 2025 season, and UCLA's schedule will feature a few familiar faces and multiple teams it did not play this past season in its first year in the Big Ten.
Read more »
Auburn football 2025 schedule reveal: Who do the Tigers play in 2025 and when?How Auburn football's schedule will look in 2025 following Wednesday's official reveal
Read more »
14 lessons from 2025 to remember in 2025: BofA14 lessons from 2025 to remember in 2025: BofA
Read more »