Lockscreen adware is booming in the Google Play Store

Posted on Thursday, May 19 2016 @ 14:05 CEST by Thomas De Maesschalck
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Android Police urges Google to do something about the rising number of apps with lock screen adware in the Play Store.

After discovering adware in a new version of ES File Explorer, Android users compiled a list of apps that sneak in an adware-infused charging lock screen and have found there are already about 20 of them. These apps violate the Google developer policy and should thus not be available via the Play Store.
The spreadsheet includes apps like ES, Xender, Z Camera, FotoRus, and more. None of these apps tell you upfront they will slap ads on your phone while it's charging, but they do. I checked a few of them to make sure, and it's the exact same screen we saw on ES (an extra lock screen for charging that has ads on it). It's not opt-in, either. The "feature" activates itself. It's a stripped down version of DU Battery Saver, an app that has over 10 million (obviously paid) reviews on the Play Store. And let's be clear, this app does absolutely nothing good for your phone. It's garbage, and now the developers are sticking their garbage in other apps.


About the Author

Thomas De Maesschalck

Thomas has been messing with computer since early childhood and firmly believes the Internet is the best thing since sliced bread. Enjoys playing with new tech, is fascinated by science, and passionate about financial markets. When not behind a computer, he can be found with running shoes on or lifting heavy weights in the weight room.



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