Adware Hidden in Android Apps Downloaded More Than 440 Million Times

In a study, it was discovered that 238 applications in Google Play hid BeiTaAd, a well-obfuscated ad plugin that could display ads on the device's lock screen, trigger video and audio advertisements while the phone is asleep, and display ads outside the app that interfered with the user experience in other applications. The 238 different applications were downloaded more than 440 million times.  The research report states that as of May 23, 2019, all affected apps had been either removed from Google Play or updated to versions that do not contain BeiTaAd. 

Dark Reading reports: "Adware Hidden in Android Apps Downloaded More Than 440 Million Times"