NCC Raises Alarm On App Used To Hack Phone, Computer Data On Google Play Store

The Nigerian Communications Commission has asked Nigerians to be wary of a malware application ‘HiddenAds’ that has found its way into the google play store.

Malware is a software application usually developed by spammers to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorized access to a computer or mobile phone.

The warning was given by the NCC’s Computer Security Incident Response Team (NCC-CSIRT) in its advisory released on Monday.

According to the release, the malware can impact device performance and jeopardise users’ privacy.

It noted that the malware takes the form of device cleaners and optimization apps.

“Upon installation, it can run malicious services without the user opening the app. It also spams the user with irrelevant advertisements. The apps have received downloads ranging from 100,000 to over a million, the advisory reads.