Belgian police confirmed that Google recently deleted 8 applications from the Google Play Store, noting that it has now advised users to remove them from their phones without delay.
The newspaper “Express” that it is believed that all of these applications contain the dangerous malware “Joker”.
The newspaper pointed out that the program is capable of causing chaos in any phone that infects it.
Once installed, the software has the ability to install hidden spyware and premium dialers on the devices.
This program can enroll users in expensive monthly subscription plans.
She noted that some victims found themselves paying more than £240 a year for these fraudulent subscriptions.
According to researchers at the “Quick Hill Security Lab” for cyber security, the Joker virus can later access text messages, contacts and a lot of other information on smartphones.
The newspaper indicated that the applications affected by the Joker virus are:
“Auxiliary Message, Element Scanner, Fast Magic SMS, Free CamScanner, Go Messages, Super Message, Great SMS, Travel Wallpapers”.