Google plots free upgrade for millions of Android users – and it could stop a bank raiding attack in its tracks

GOOGLE is plotting a so-called ‘quarantine’ for potentially risky Android apps.

Quarantined apps essentially get placed in silent mode, where their activities are limited, as well as their interactions with other apps.

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While Google is typically very good at deleting dangerous apps from the Play Store, some do fall through the cracks[/caption]

Google Play Protect already scans applications for malware in real-time.

But this feature it’s another step up in terms of security.

According to Android Authority, the free upgrade is rumoured to be included in Google’s biggest software update of the year: Android 15.

Android owners are unable to quarantine the apps manually.

Instead, the security measure happens automatically if the app shows clear signs of being malicious.

Quarantined apps will reportedly remain visible on your phone’s home screen and in Settings.

However, all notifications and activities will stop, while any active windows will close.

Risky apps

While Google is typically very good at deleting dangerous apps from the Play Store, some do fall through the cracks.

Just last week, cyber researchers at ESET rang the alarm on a trio of nasty apps that aim to steal Android owners’ personal information.

These apps are posing as messaging services and offer basic, but functional services as bait.

At surface level, they work and appear legitimate – but they’re not.

Behind the scenes, they are hiding open-source XploitSPY malware.

The apps exist to steal contact lists, camera files, location, download data, as well as your WhatsApp and Telegram.

Hackers have been advertising them – and others that are similar – on websites and on the Google Play store.

These are examples of apps that may look legitimate enough to download – but would be swiftly placed under quarantine.

Android owners have been urged to check their devices for these three apps:

• Dink Messenger
• Sim Info
• Defcom

If you have any of these apps, it’s advised you delete them immediately.

How to delete apps on Android

1. Open the Google Play Store app .
2. At the top right, tap the Profile icon.
3. Tap Manage apps and devices. Manage.
4. Select the name of the app that you’d like to delete.
5. Tap Uninstall.