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Android's latest nightmare: millions of devices infected by sneaky malware

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Android's latest nightmare: millions of devices infected by sneaky malware

You’d think an app listed on the Play Store would be safe to download. That’s what Google wants you to believe, and it’s true to a large extent. But in this digital world, no service is foolproof. 

Time and time again, there have been instances when widely downloaded apps on the Play Store were infected by malware. While Google continues to promise that the app market is safe, another incident has come to light. 

Security researchers have discovered a new Trojan malware called Necro that not only infects apps downloaded through unofficial sources but also those on the Play Store, including one with more than 10 million downloads.

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A man scrolling on his Android phone  (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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How does Necro infect apps

The exact method by which both apps were initially compromised with the malware is still unclear. Researchers at Kaspersky’s Securelist believe a rogue software development kit (SDK) used for integrating advertising functionalities may be responsible for the breach. SDKs are essential tools developers use to add specific features to their apps, such as ad services, analytics or payment processing. 

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When an SDK is compromised, it can inadvertently introduce vulnerabilities into the applications that utilize it. In this case, the malware affecting the apps displayed ads in the background to generate fraudulent revenue for the attackers, installed apps and APKs without the user’s consent and used invisible WebViews to interact with paid services.

The Trojan in question, Necro, isn’t exactly new. It’s the same malware that infected a popular document scanner called CamScanner in 2019, which at that time had over 100 million downloads.

An Android phone on a desk  (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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Which apps are affected?

Kaspersky researchers identified several apps affected by the Necro Trojan, including those available in Google Play. Their combined audience numbered more than 11 million Android devices.

The first affected app is the Wuta Camera, a photo editing and beautification tool. It has at least 10 million times. The Necro loader has been embedded in it starting from version 6.3.2.148. The latest version of the app, 6.3.6.148, which was available on Google Play, also had it. After the researchers reported the presence of malicious code to Google, the Trojan was removed from the app in version 6.3.7.138.

The second infected app was Max Browser. This browser, according to Google Play, has been installed more than a million times and, starting with version 1.2.0, also contained the Necro loader. Google took down the infected app from the Play Store after it was reported.

Kaspersky also found WhatsApp mods that had the Necro loader in unofficial sources. It also spotted the Spotify mod called “Spotify Plus,” which promises free access to ad-free premium services. Plus, the report mentions mods for popular games like Minecraft, Stumble Guys, Car Parking Multiplayer, and Melon Sandbox, all of which were infected with the Necro loader.

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Mods, or modifications, are altered versions of original apps or games that often provide additional features or tweaks.

An Android phone  (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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What is Google’s response to this?

Google is aware of the Necro malware and, as I mentioned above, it has already taken down the affected apps. A Google spokesperson provided us with the following statement:

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“All of the malicious versions of the apps identified by this report were removed from Google Play prior to report publication. Android users are automatically protected against known versions of this malware by Google Play Protect, which is on by default on Android devices with Google Play Services. Google Play Protect can warn users or block apps known to exhibit malicious behavior, even when those apps come from sources outside of Play.”

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4 ways to protect yourself from Necro malware

1. Have strong antivirus software: Android has its own built-in malware protection called Play Protect, but the Necro Trojan proves it’s not enough. Historically, Play Protect hasn’t been 100% foolproof at removing all known malware from Android phones. The best way to protect yourself from clicking malicious links that install malware that may get access to your private information is to have antivirus protection installed on all your devices. This can also alert you of any phishing emails or ransomware scams. Get my picks for the best 2024 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.

2. Download apps from reliable sources: It’s important to download apps only from trusted sources like the Google Play Store. You might say I am contradicting myself, but Play Store is still safer than other options out there. It has strict checks to prevent malware and other harmful software. However, even with the security measures provided by Google Play, downloading apps from the store does not guarantee 100% protection against malware or harmful software. Avoid downloading apps from unknown websites or unofficial stores because they can pose a higher risk to your personal data and device. Never trust download links that you get through SMS.

3. Be cautious with app permissions: Always review the permissions requested by apps before installation. If an app requests access to features that seem unnecessary for its function, it could be a sign of malicious intent. Do not give any app accessibility permissions unless you really need to. Avoid granting permissions that could compromise your personal data.

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4. Regularly update your device’s operating system and apps: Keeping your software up to date is crucial because updates often include security patches for newly discovered vulnerabilities that could be exploited by trojans.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

The discovery of the Necro loader in apps like Wuta Camera, Max Browser and popular game mods shows just how serious security issues can be in the app world. With over 11 million Android devices affected, it’s crucial to be careful about where you download your apps. Unofficial sources can be a breeding ground for hidden threats, but the Play Store isn’t completely safe either. Google should look into what apps it allows on its platform. I haven’t seen as many malware issues affecting iPhone apps as there are on Android.

Do you think Google does enough to protect users from malware on the Play Store? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact

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Soundcore new Space 2 promise improved ANC and sound

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Soundcore new Space 2 promise improved ANC and sound

We finally have an update to the Soundcore Space One that launched two and a half years ago. At MWC 2026, Soundcore has announced the Space 2, which will be available in the US on April 21st in three colors — linen white, jet black, and seafoam green — for $129.99. That’s $30 more than the Space One’s original price.

According to Soundcore, the Space 2 have had a full-band noise cancellation upgrade with the focus of those improvements on the low-frequency sounds we all generally use ANC headphones to block — things like airplane, train, and bus engine sounds while traveling. The Space 2 use the same number of microphones as the Space One for noise canceling, instead relying on optimized mic placement and structure and materials improvements for the boost in performance.

Redesigned 40mm drivers incorporate dual layers in their design. There’s a silk diaphragm with metal ceramic that supposedly results in faster transient response — the driver’s ability to respond to sudden sound quickly and accurately — with better balanced sound reproduction. The Space One had great sound performance for the price, but I’m all for any improvement to sound performance accuracy. Like the Space One, the Space 2 will support LDAC high-res audio.

The headphones connect wirelessly over Bluetooth 6.1, although they do not support Auracast transmissions — an unfortunate exclusion. There’s also a 3.5mm jack for a wired connection.

Battery life has been increased to up to 50 hours with ANC and 70 hours with ANC off. This is up from 40 hours with ANC and 55 hours without ANC with the Space One headphones. With a five-minute charge the Space 2 get an additional four hours of listening.

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The Space 2 will include many of the features found on the Space One. You can use HearID 3.0 to go through a series of sound samples to tune the headphones’ sound to your preferences. It worked well for me on the Space One to get them closer to a sound I liked, with a bit of the edge taken off the higher frequencies. There’s also a sensor that detects when you remove the headphones and stops playback so you don’t miss any of your music or podcast. They once again come with a cloth bag that matches the color of the headphones instead of a case, which is one change I wish Soundcore had made, as the cloth bag doesn’t offer as much protection if you tend to throw your headphones into your backpack or bag.

The Soundcore Space One were among the best budget ANC headphones when they came out, and still hold up to more recent releases. But with the bump in price to over $100 for the Space 2, there’s a bit more expectation on them. ANC performance continues to improve — and products get cheaper — across manufacturers, so the Soundcore Space 2 has some competition from companies like Sony, EarFun, and JLab. If the ANC on the Space 2 stands up to current budget headphones and they still sound as good and are as comfortable as the Space One, you can expect to see the new Soundcore Space 2 on many recommendation lists.

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Tired of websites blocking your VPN? A dedicated IP fixes that

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Tired of websites blocking your VPN? A dedicated IP fixes that

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If you have ever turned on your VPN and suddenly could not log in to your bank, email, streaming service or work portal, you are not imagining things. In fact, this is one of the most common frustrations VPN users face today.

However, the issue is not that VPNs stopped working. Instead, websites have become far more aggressive about blocking traffic that looks suspicious.

As a result, the way your VPN is built now matters just as much as whether you use one at all.

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Shared VPN IPs often trigger red flags, which is why banks, email providers and streaming sites sometimes block access. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Why websites block many VPN connections

Most VPNs give you a shared IP address. As a result, hundreds or even thousands of people can appear online from the same address at the same time. From a website’s perspective, that traffic pattern raises red flags. When platforms detect too many logins, rapid location changes or unusual activity tied to one IP, they step in quickly. In many cases, they respond by:

  • Blocking access
  • Triggering captchas
  • Requiring extra verification codes
  • Temporarily locking accounts

Meanwhile, you did nothing wrong. Instead, you end up dealing with restrictions caused by other users sharing that same IP address.

What a dedicated IP does differently

With a dedicated IP, you get an address that belongs only to you. Unlike shared VPN connections, no one else uses it.

Each time you connect, you use the same IP address. As a result, you avoid sharing traffic, rotating locations or competing with random users whose activity could trigger blocks.

Because of that consistency, your connection looks much more like a typical home or office internet setup. And that simple difference can dramatically reduce website suspicion and login headaches.

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A dedicated IP gives you a consistent address that looks more like a normal home connection, reducing captchas and login alerts. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

What a dedicated IP can do that shared VPN IPs usually can’t

That consistency does more than reduce suspicion; it improves how smoothly you access the sites and services you use every day.

Access more websites without blocks

Banks, government portals, healthcare sites, and streaming services are far less likely to block a dedicated IP because it does not show heavy or erratic traffic patterns.

Reduce captchas and security challenges

Those endless “prove you’re human” messages are usually triggered by shared IP abuse. A dedicated IP dramatically reduces them.

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Make banking and email logins smoother

Financial institutions and email providers often flag constantly changing IP addresses as suspicious. A dedicated IP stays consistent, so login alerts and lockouts happen far less often.

Support remote work and secure systems

Some employers only allow access from approved IP addresses. Shared VPN IPs cannot be approved. Dedicated IPs can.

Improve streaming reliability

Shared VPN IPs are often the first to get blocked when streaming services crack down. Dedicated IPs are less likely to be flagged because traffic looks normal and predictable.

What a dedicated IP does not do

A dedicated IP:

  • Does not remove encryption
  • Does not expose your identity
  • Does not weaken your privacy

Your traffic remains encrypted, and your real location stays hidden. You simply get a connection that websites trust more.

Who benefits most from a dedicated IP

A dedicated IP is especially helpful if you:

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  • Use online banking regularly
  • Travel and access sites from different locations
  • Work remotely
  • Stream often
  • Get tired of captchas and blocked pages
  • Want a VPN that feels normal to use

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With fewer blocks and smoother logins, a dedicated IP helps your VPN work quietly in the background instead of getting in your way. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

How to choose a VPN that offers a dedicated IP

If you want these benefits, look for a VPN provider that offers a dedicated IP option built directly into its service. Some providers include it in premium plans, while others offer it as an add-on. Either way, the process should be simple. You should be able to select your dedicated IP inside the app without advanced setup or manual configuration. Before signing up, check that the provider also offers strong speeds, reliable uptime and clear privacy policies. A dedicated IP improves access, but overall performance still matters.

 What to look for beyond a dedicated IP

A dedicated IP reduces blocks. However, a quality VPN should also deliver strong security and smooth performance.

Fast, stable connections: Speed matters for streaming, video calls and everyday browsing. Look for providers known for consistent performance.

Wide server coverage: More server locations give you flexibility when traveling and help reduce location errors.

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Clear privacy practices: Choose a VPN with a strict no-logs policy and independent audits when possible.

Secure server technology: Modern VPNs often use RAM-based servers that automatically wipe data on reboot.

Easy-to-use apps: Protection should feel simple, not technical. Clean apps across major devices make daily use effortless.

For the best VPN software, see my expert review of the best VPNs for browsing the web privately on your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices at Cyberguy.com

Kurt’s key takeaway

If your VPN keeps getting blocked, the problem may not be the VPN itself. It may be the shared IP address behind it. Websites are increasingly aggressive about suspicious traffic. When hundreds of users share the same IP, banks, email providers and streaming platforms take notice. That is when the captchas, verification codes and account lockouts start. A dedicated IP changes that experience. You still get encryption. You still protect your real location. But your connection looks stable and predictable, which helps you avoid constant interruptions.

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Should protecting your privacy really mean fighting with your bank, email, and streaming apps? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com

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Copyright 2026 CyberGuy.com.  All rights reserved.  

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Polymarket defends its decision to allow betting on war as ‘invaluable’

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Polymarket defends its decision to allow betting on war as ‘invaluable’
It might be World War III, but at least I won $20. | Image: Polymarket / The Verge

Polymarket has been allowing people to bet on when the US would strike Iran next. Obviously, now that it’s actually happened and people have died, the prediction betting market is feeling some pressure. The site has been at the center of controversy before, including suspicions of insider trading on the Super Bowl halftime show and the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.

In a statement posted on its site, Polymarket defended its decision to allow betting on the potential start of a war, saying that it was an “invaluable” source of news and answers, before taking shots at traditional media and Elon Musk’s X. The statement reads:

Read the full story at The Verge.

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