Experts have issued a warning over malware that could be hidden on your phone and which has the ability to secretly record your phone calls.
The malicious software can be hidden inside what may appear to be an update to your phone's operating system.
According to The Mirror, researchers from ESET have found spyware, called Android/SpyC23.A, distributed via a fake Android app store.
ESET researcher Lukas Stefanko said: “We identified a fake Android app store used to distribute the malware. The malware was hidden in apps posing as AndroidUpdate, Threema and Telegram.
“The latter two of these lures also downloaded the impersonated apps with full functionality along with the malware.”
Android/SpyC23.A can take pictures, record audio, delete files and record your screen.
Mr Stefanko said: “To prevent falling victim to spyware, we advise Android users to only install apps from the official Google Play Store.
“In cases where privacy concerns, access issues or other restrictions prevent users from following this advice, users should take extra care when downloading apps from unofficial sources.
“We recommend scrutinising the app’s developer, double-checking the permissions requested, and using a trustworthy and up-to-date mobile security solution.”
