app interface Archives

AppWizard

August 8, 2025

MumuPlayer Android Emulator version 5.0 out now

Disney is merging its streaming platforms, Disney+ and Hulu, into a single application in select markets, starting with the United States after initial implementation in the Philippines. Subscribers will have a unified Disney+ app that includes Hulu's content library while maintaining separate subscription plans for both services. Hulu will continue as a standalone brand, and Disney plans to rebrand its Star service to Hulu in certain territories. Existing subscribers in regions with the combined app will retain their Disney+ subscription and access to a variety of content from both platforms.

AppWizard

August 5, 2025

New Android Malware Poses as SBI Card and Axis Bank Apps to Steal Financial Data

McAfee’s Mobile Research Team has identified a malware campaign targeting Android users in India, specifically Hindi speakers. The malware disguises itself as legitimate financial applications from banks like SBI Card, Axis Bank, and IndusInd Bank. It is distributed through phishing websites that mimic official banking portals and uses authentic assets to appear credible. The malware has dual functionality: it exfiltrates personal and financial data and mines Monero cryptocurrency using the XMRig tool, activated remotely via Firebase Cloud Messaging (FCM). It masquerades as a Google Play update, prompting users to install it, which leads to data theft. Upon installation, the malware presents a fake Google Play interface and requests sensitive information, which is sent to a command-and-control server. After data submission, users see a misleading confirmation page. The malware employs a multi-stage dropper to evade detection, with remote activation capabilities that keep it dormant until triggered. Phishing sites promote the malicious APK through SMS, WhatsApp, or social media. McAfee has reported these threats to Google, resulting in the blocking of the associated FCM account. All variants are classified as high-risk, with infections primarily in India but some in other regions. Users are advised to download apps only from Google Play and to be cautious with unsolicited links. Indicators of Compromise (IOCs) include specific APKs for various credit cards and phishing site URLs related to the campaign.

Tech Optimizer

July 29, 2025

Surfshark One Review

Surfshark has launched Surfshark One, a comprehensive security suite that includes a VPN, antivirus software, a data leak detection system, and a private search engine. Surfshark One features over 3,200 servers in 100 countries, military-grade encryption, a no-logs policy, and a kill switch. The antivirus component offers real-time protection and was awarded 'Top Product' by AV-TEST in June 2024 for a 100% detection rate against advanced malware. Surfshark Alert notifies users of data breaches involving sensitive information, while Surfshark Search provides an ad-free, private browsing experience. Users can choose from various plans, with competitive pricing and a seven-day free trial available. The interface is user-friendly and supports multiple devices, allowing protection for up to five devices per account. The antivirus continuously monitors devices, and users can conduct on-demand scans or schedule them. Surfshark's VPN offers features like NoBorders mode, Dynamic MultiHop, and a built-in speed test. Additional features include the Alternative ID for managing online personas and the option for a dedicated IP address for an extra fee. However, some features like a password manager and parental controls are not included.

AppWizard

July 9, 2025

Android malware Anatsa infiltrates Google Play to target US banks

The Anatsa banking trojan has reappeared on Google Play as a PDF viewer app, accumulating over 50,000 downloads. It activates upon installation, targeting North American banking applications by presenting an overlay that allows unauthorized access, keylogging, and transaction automation. Researchers from Threat Fabric discovered that the app displays a fake notification about banking system maintenance to mask its activities. Anatsa has a history of infiltrating Google Play through various trojanized applications, with previous campaigns resulting in 300,000 downloads in November 2021, 30,000 in June 2023, and 150,000 in February 2024. In May 2024, Zscaler reported two new Anatsa applications on Google Play, achieving 70,000 downloads. The specific app identified is ‘Document Viewer – File Reader,’ published by ‘Hybrid Cars Simulator, Drift & Racing,’ which maintains a “clean” appearance until it builds a user base, after which malicious code is introduced via an update. Anatsa connects to a command-and-control server to monitor targeted applications. Google has removed the malicious app, advising users to uninstall it, scan their devices, and reset banking credentials. Users are encouraged to download apps only from reputable publishers and be cautious with permissions and reviews. Google Play Protect automatically protects users from known malicious apps.

AppWizard

July 7, 2025

Google Gemini app gains automatic Android access to phone and messaging data

On July 7, 2025, Google Gemini app users experienced automatic activation of permissions for accessing phone calls, messaging services, WhatsApp, and system utilities on Android devices, following a privacy policy update on June 11, 2025. This change affects millions of users globally and allows user data to be reviewed by humans for AI training. Users can disable these permissions through the app's settings, but the option to opt-out is criticized for being difficult to find. Legal experts have raised concerns about compliance with GDPR regulations due to the lack of explicit user consent for these changes. The data collected supports machine-learning development and may be retained for up to three years, even after users delete their activity.

AppWizard

June 20, 2025

Godfather Android malware takes over banking apps

A new version of the Android malware Godfather creates isolated virtual environments on mobile devices to steal account details and transactions from banking apps. It targets over 500 banking, cryptocurrency, and e-commerce applications globally, utilizing a fully virtual file system, virtual process IDs, intent spoofing, and a component called StubActivity. Godfather manifests as an APK app with a virtualization framework, scanning for targeted applications and encapsulating them within its virtual environment. It intercepts permissions for accessibility services, redirecting them to a StubActivity that launches the virtual version of the banking app, allowing it to capture sensitive information. The malware can record account details, passwords, and PIN codes using Xposed for API hooking. It employs a fake lock screen overlay to trick users into entering their credentials and can manipulate user interfaces and execute transactions within the legitimate banking app. Godfather first emerged in March 2021 and has evolved significantly since then, with the latest iteration demonstrating advancements from previous versions.

AppWizard

June 19, 2025

Godfather Android malware now uses virtualization to hijack banking apps

A new iteration of the Android malware "Godfather" has emerged, utilizing advanced techniques to create isolated virtual environments on mobile devices for stealthy account data theft and transaction manipulation from legitimate banking applications. It targets over 500 banking, cryptocurrency, and e-commerce applications globally, employing a comprehensive virtual filesystem, virtual Process ID, intent spoofing, and a component called StubActivity. Godfather is delivered as an APK app with an embedded virtualization framework, scanning for installed target applications and launching them within its virtual environment. It intercepts user interactions with genuine banking apps, capturing sensitive data like credentials and PINs while presenting a legitimate interface. The malware can execute commands to unlock devices and initiate transactions while avoiding detection. Godfather first appeared in March 2021 and has evolved significantly since then, with the latest version representing a notable advancement over previous iterations. Users are advised to download apps only from trusted sources and remain cautious about app permissions to protect against this malware.

Tech Optimizer

June 1, 2025

Bitdefender vs. Norton: Which Antivirus Titan Reigns Supreme for Your Digital Safety?

Bitdefender was established in 1996 and rebranded in 2001, becoming the most popular mobile antivirus in North and South America in 2022. Norton was founded in 1982 and became well-known after Symantec's acquisition. Bitdefender achieves over 98% detection rates online and offline, with five false positives in tests, while Norton exceeds 99% online and 97% offline but has a higher false positive rate. Bitdefender offers a configurable firewall in its Total Security package, while Norton provides a customizable firewall across all products. Bitdefender lacks identity theft protection in its core offerings but offers a separate service, while Norton includes comprehensive identity theft protection in its highest tier. Bitdefender includes a VPN with a 200MB daily cap, while Norton offers an unlimited VPN in most tiers. Bitdefender features an integrated password manager without two-factor authentication, while Norton allows credential sharing and has standalone options. Bitdefender provides basic parental controls, while Norton includes additional features like GPS tracking. Bitdefender enhances its packages with a file shredder and vulnerability scanner, while Norton offers SafeCam and Dark Web Monitoring. Bitdefender is known for resource efficiency, receiving awards for performance, while Norton also received recognition for its performance. Bitdefender has an easy-to-navigate interface, while Norton has a more complex interface. In AV-Comparatives tests, Bitdefender slightly surpassed Norton in offline detection and online protection rates. Bitdefender pricing starts at approximately .99/year for one device, while Norton starts at .99/year for one device as well.

AppWizard

May 8, 2025

Zomato on Android: Discover the most useful features

Zomato's Android app features an intuitive interface for browsing restaurant menus, allowing users to easily select items and add them to their cart. The checkout process supports various payment methods, including credit cards and digital wallets, ensuring a quick and tailored experience. Additionally, the app provides real-time order tracking, offering updates on the status of orders from the kitchen to the customer's doorstep.

AppWizard

May 1, 2025

How to enable Truecaller’s widget on Android

After integrating Truecaller's widget onto your home screen, you can explore features such as reviewing recent calls and accessing contacts directly from the widget. Adjusting these settings allows you to tailor the widget's performance to your daily requirements.