Caution to users of these ‘hazardous’ Android applications: ‘Uninstall them immediately’

2025-04-06 01:31:59 By Robert Williams

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Inspect your smartphone for these risky applications (Image: Getty)

Experts warn that millions of individuals have downloaded applications that present risks such as 'extortion, harassment, and financial loss.'

Android phones are vulnerable to certain malicious apps which can appear on the Play Store for some time before being removed by Google.

Cyber security firm McAfee has compiled a list of the 15 most-downloaded SpyLoan apps, commonly referred to as 'predatory loan apps'.

With a staggering total of 8 million downloads globally, these applications have the capability to manage other apps and retrieve data from mobile devices.

According to McAfee, the applications in question are either removed from the Play Store or have been modified to eliminate their threats, yet a significant number still reside on users' devices.

15 Android Apps You Should Uninstall Immediately

  • Préstamo Seguro – Rápido, seguro
  • Préstamo Rápido – Credit Easy
  • ได้บาทง่ายๆ-สินเชื่อด่วน
  • RupiahKilat-Dana cair
  • ยืมอย่างมีความสุข – เงินกู้
  • เงินมีความสุข – สินเชื่อด่วน
  • KreditKu-Uang Online
  • Dana Kilat-Pinjaman kecil
  • Cash Loan-Vay tiền
  • RapidFinance
  • PrêtPourVous
  • Huayna Money – Préstamo Rápido
  • IPréstamos: Rápido Crédito
  • ConseguirSol-Dinero Rápido
  • ÉcoPrêt Prêt En Ligne

Even if you haven't installed any applications, it's important for users to remain vigilant for signs that their device might be infected with malware.

These encompass notifications regarding a virus, outdated anti-virus software, reduced operating speed, diminished storage capacity, and issues with your device's functionality.

Compromised phones can transmit emails or social media updates without your awareness.

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Consider your choices wisely before downloading any new applications (Image: Getty)

Tips for Protecting Your Phone from Harmful Apps 1. **Download from Trusted Sources**: Always install apps from official app stores like Google Play Store or Apple App Store to minimize the risk of downloading malicious software. 2. **Check App Permissions**: Before installing an app, review the permissions it requests. Be cautious of apps that ask for access to information or features that seem unnecessary for their function. 3. **Read Reviews and Ratings**: Look at user reviews and ratings to gauge the app's reliability. Apps with many negative reviews or low ratings may pose a risk. 4. **Keep Your Device Updated**: Regularly update your phone's operating system and apps to ensure you have the latest security patches and features. 5. **Use a Security App**: Consider installing a reputable mobile security app that can scan for malware and provide real-time protection. 6. **Enable Google Play Protect or Similar Features**: Utilize built-in security features that scan apps for malware before and after installation. 7. **Be Wary of Free Apps**: Free apps may be supported by ads or have hidden costs. Do thorough research before downloading. 8. **Avoid Jailbreaking or Rooting Your Phone**: These practices can expose your device to security vulnerabilities and make it easier for harmful apps to infiltrate. 9. **Regularly Review Installed Apps**: Periodically check your installed apps and remove any that you no longer use or trust. 10. **Educate Yourself on Phishing Scams**: Be aware of phishing attempts that could trick you into downloading harmful apps or providing personal information. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the risk of dangerous apps affecting your phone's security.

  • When downloading a new app, McAfee recommends reviewing it first with a critical eye – look for poor grammar in the app description, read the reviews and check whether the developer has published other apps that have been well reviewed, too. 
  • Avoid using any apps that require accessibility services unless there is a genuine need for use.
  • Ensure that your mobile device is protected with comprehensive security solutions that include features to monitor and block potentially malicious links and apps.
  • And as always, never click on suspicious links in messages or emails, even if they say you must act urgently. This is a common ploy by cybercriminals. If you are unsure whether it is legitimate or not, contact the company directly.
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Malaysia Surfs the AI Wave to Attract Data Center Investments

2025-04-06 01:31:59

View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Picture: Alamy Malaysia’s data center sector is on a tear, with investment surging threefold in 2024. Data center firms committed MYR141.7 billion ($31.5 billion) in just the first 10 months of last year, up from MYR46.2 billion ($10.3 billion) over 2023, property consultancy Knight Frank has found. The bulk of this came from tech giants: $4.3 billion from Nvidia, $2.2 billion from Microsoft, $2.1 billion from ByteDance, $2 billion from Google, and $6 billion through to 2038 from AWS. Malaysia is already the biggest data center player in Southeast Asia, with 429 MW of capacity, way ahead of the second biggest, Indonesia, with 93MW. The underlying driver in this flood of investment is the colossal pool of cash flooding into AI. The ASEAN region, with its population of 700 million and fast-growing digital services, is an attractive target both for western giants and their Chinese counterparts. However, it is also a result of the Malaysian government's initiatives to promote the growth of its digital economy. 

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Insider Claims Mario Kart 9 Will Be a Launch Title for Switch 2

2025-04-06 01:31:59

A powerful contender right from the start! View pictures in App save up to 80% data. There is no shortage of rumors and speculation about the gaming industry online. But still, some comments made by individuals take up a little more interest with followers. One of those recently suggested that Nintendo is bringing out the Mario Kart 9 installment with the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 console. A lot of players enjoyed Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and the previous installments of this beloved racing franchise. So we wouldn’t be surprised to see Nintendo bring out quite a few heavy-hitting titles right out of the gate to help move the new console like a new installment to the Mario Kart franchise. While we’re still waiting for Nintendo to unveil the next console they have been working on, Gamerant recently reported on a comment made by Average Lucia Fanatic. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. This comes from a reliable source within the industry, but it’s best to treat this as a rumor for the time being. According to the insider, we can expect an announcement from Nintendo on January 17, 2025. Along with this news, a release date for the Nintendo Switch 2 is anticipated. If the information holds up, the new console could hit the shelves on March 3, 2025. They also said Mario Kart 9, Red Dead Redemption 2, and the next 3D Mario game will be unveiled as launch titles. Mario Kart fans will certainly be interested in this installment because it would mark the next mainline installment to the franchise after Mario Kart 8 initially launched for the Nintendo Wii U. If you don’t recall, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe was essentially the same game with some revamps and additional DLC. Nevertheless, we will need to be patient until Nintendo officially reveals the new console and the games that will be available at launch. Let's hope we won't have to wait too long this month for the announcement of the next Nintendo Direct.

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Are we on the brink of energy shortages as we accelerate towards net zero emissions?

2025-04-06 01:31:59

A former energy secretary cautioned last night that Ed Miliband's intense focus on wind and solar energy could put Britain in jeopardy of experiencing blackouts, especially as the country's gas reserves have dwindled to 'worryingly low' levels. As temperatures dip below freezing again this weekend, the chief executive of Centrica, the parent company of British Gas, announced that the nation has less than a week's supply of gas available. The alarming alert follows just days after the UK nearly experienced power outages on what was described as the most strained day for the GB electricity market since 2011. On Wednesday, the National Energy System Operator in the UK alerted electricity suppliers to increase their production levels.  It cautioned that the country lacked an adequate buffer to maintain its power supply, and experts subsequently indicated that the power market was 'within 580MW of needing demand control or facing a blackout'. The national grid struggled with a lack of wind power, no solar power during the night and interconnector outages.  In order to address the deficit, grid operators were compelled to pay as much as 50 times the usual electricity prices to maintain the operation of gas power plants. Energy Secretary Mr. Miliband is advancing 'bold' initiatives aimed at achieving 95 percent clean energy in the UK by the year 2030. Last night, Claire Coutinho, the former energy secretary in the previous administration and now a key opponent of Mr. Miliband, voiced her criticism of Labour's initiatives aimed at achieving net-zero emissions.  View pictures in App save up to 80% data. A former energy secretary cautioned last night that Ed Miliband's intense focus on wind and solar energy could put Britain in jeopardy of experiencing blackouts. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Concerns are rising that the gas supply in Britain may deplete within just a few days due to the recent cold snap (as shown in the image, someone is shoveling snow in Bowes, Durham, on Friday). View pictures in App save up to 80% data. The image showcases the liquid natural gas storage tanks located at the National Grid facility on the Isle of Grain in Kent. She remarked, "Ed Miliband's fixation on wind and solar energy, instead of ensuring energy security, will result in financial losses for us, make us reliant on foreign imports, and expose us to the threat of power outages."  "As I mentioned last year, we should focus on constructing additional gas and nuclear power plants to ensure we have affordable and dependable energy." On Thursday, the levels of gas stored at UK facilities were 26 percent lower compared to the same timeframe last year, resulting in storage being approximately 50 percent full.  Gas inventory levels are facing strain due to the recent cold weather and the cessation of Russian gas pipeline supplies via Ukraine at the end of last month. According to data from National Grid, natural gas made up slightly more than 55 percent of the UK's power generation yesterday, while renewable energy sources fulfilled approximately 10 percent of the nation's energy requirements. The United Kingdom has one of the lowest levels of gas storage compared to other major European nations, with the ability to store gas sufficient for 12 typical days or 7.5 days during peak winter demand. Germany has sufficient supplies for 89 days, while France can sustain itself for 103 days, and the Netherlands has enough resources for 123 days. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. In recent days, much of the UK has been blanketed by heavy snowfall. The image shows High Street in Saddleworth. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. The Labour Party aims to eliminate carbon emissions from the power grid by 2030. However, Sir Keir Starmer, who had a meeting with Emmanuel Macron last night, has recently softened this commitment to achieving at least 95 percent 'clean' energy. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Hardy wild swimmers in Avon Lagoon in West Lothian, take the plunge in freezing waters on Friday morning - after smashing their way through the ice, first Last year, energy production from significant fossil fuel power plants accounted for just over 25% of the overall total, whereas renewable sources, particularly solar energy, saw an increase, along with a rise in electricity imports. A spokesperson for No10 stated yesterday: 'We are assured that our gas supply and electricity capacity will adequately meet demand this winter, thanks to our varied and robust energy system.'  They stated that reports suggesting the UK was on the brink of an energy blackout are 'false'.

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2025-04-06 01:31:59

Your current browser is outdated and may expose you to security threats. We suggest upgrading to one of the following browsers: Everything is ready to go! View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Tatum Richards takes a shot in the game against NRHEG. (Photo by Lucas Dittmer - Faribault.com) Thank you . Your account has been successfully created, and you are now signed in. Please check your inbox for more information.

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Final Fantasy 7 Remake and Rebirth are said to be heading to the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2.

2025-04-06 01:31:59

Nintendo fans might soon be able to enjoy Final Fantasy 7 Remake and Rebirth.  View pictures in App save up to 80% data. It’s no secret that Final Fantasy 7 looms large in the gaming world, a true juggernaut even within the massive Final Fantasy franchise. The remastered series has only brought new fans to the love of the game, introducing new players to Cloud, Aerith, Tifa, and the gang. But despite the popularity of Final Fantasy 7 Remake and Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, they have been PS5 console exclusives since launch. That means many gamers haven’t had the opportunity to enjoy the return to Midgar… but that might be about to change. Content produced by ComicBook.com Gamers without a PlayStation console will soon be able to play Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth on PC when it releases via Steam and Epic Games on January 23rd, 2025. It’s been a long wait, but the PC release will at least allow a new set of gamers to enjoy the next installment in the remastered storyline. However, those gorgeous graphics come at a pretty high cost in terms of required specs, and not all gamers have a PC that can run the game. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. The main cast of final fantasy 7 remake & rebirth Thus for those with a different console at home, hope remains that Final Fantasy 7 Remake and Rebirth will eventually be available on Xbox and Nintendo consoles. A new rumor suggests that, when the Nintendo Switch 2 finally launches into the world, it will do so with FF7 games close behind. Square Enix’s Multiplatform Approach May Include Final Fantasy 7 Remasters on Nintendo Switch 2 A rumor, shared via Nintendo Everything, suggests that both of the Final Fantasy 7 remasters will be available on the Nintendo Switch successor. The information comes from NateDrake, host of the Nate the Hate podcast, where he claimed to be able to confirm both games would be coming to the Nintendo Switch 2. According to him, Remake would be available some time in 2025, while Rebirth would follow in 2026. While this, like the Nintendo Switch 2 itself, has yet to be formally announced, it would make sense given prior statements from developer Square Enix. The PlayStation exclusive status of the games no doubt hindered sales, and it makes sense if Square Enix is considering moving forward with a multiplatform approach. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Unexpected combinations have proven successful in Final Fantasy 7 in the past. In other words, it’s possible that future entries in the Final Fantasy 7 remake series will be available across other consoles sooner, and that the two prior games will eventually make their way to other platforms in the meantime. If this change from original plans does take place, it would be a move away from the prior two games, which enjoyed a period of PlayStation console exclusivity before eventually making their way to PC but leaving the other consoles high and dry. As of now, nothing is definite about the potential Nintendo Switch 2 release of Final Fantasy 7 Remake and Rebirth, but undoubtedly longtime Nintendo fans would love to see the games available on the new and improved console. If the games do arrive on other consoles in the next couple of years, fans will likely have plenty of time to catch up on the story, as the third installment isn’t expected for quite some time yet.

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Postcard Alert: Testing Lab Error Causes Confusion for Butler County Water Consumers

2025-04-06 01:31:59

View pictures in App save up to 80% data. The Ohio EPA has issued a monitoring violation to Butler County Water and Sewer due to a testing lab's failure to analyze one of the 16 water samples by the specified deadline. The samples were gathered in May 2023, while the violation was noted in August 2023. NICK GRAHAM/STAFF "The statement noted, 'Although the postcard sent did not effectively convey the specifics of the monitoring event, the public notice serves as a regulatory obligation aimed at ensuring that water consumers are kept informed.'" A number of individuals who reached out to Journal-News expressed their confusion regarding the recent postcard that was sent out, wondering why they were receiving a warning almost two years after the fact. The postcard, which included language required by the Ohio EPA, stated that the county water system "did not conduct monitoring for the following contaminants and as a result, cannot guarantee the safety of our drinking water during that period: Total Haloacetic Acids (HAA5)." In the year 2023, a total of 16 water samples were gathered for a specific testing parameter. These samples were sent to the contracted laboratory for analysis. Unfortunately, the laboratory failed to analyze one of the samples within the necessary holding time. The Ohio EPA denied the county's request to retake that sample, leading to the violation and the necessity for monitoring. This notification was sent out in August 2023. Although the Ohio EPA required the county to inform its water customers, officials in Butler County stated that the water and sewer department “diligently oversees its water system by gathering more than a hundred samples each month for different substances.” According to the statement, “Butler County water customers can rest easy knowing that their drinking water is of the finest quality. The Butler County Water and Sewer Department is committed to not only meeting but surpassing all regulatory standards. This monitoring event should not be interpreted as a sign of subpar water quality.” Ohio EPA required that Butler County provide the public notice to its customers on the Consumer Confidence Report. A notice was received in December 2024 that the language used in the Consumer Confidence Report was not as Ohio EPA authorized and another notice was required within 30 days using an Ohio EPA-provided template. To review the notice, visit bit.ly/BCWSNotice2025.

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What is Lemon8? Here’s what you need to know as the Supreme Court considers a ban on TikTok.

2025-04-06 01:31:59

Amid a looming U.S. ban on TikTok, content creators have been pushing the platform's sister app, but what is it and what role could it soon play? View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Have you been noticing all the buzz around Lemon8 recently? You're certainly not alone in that! Amid a looming U.S. ban on TikTok, content creators have been pushing the platform's sister app, but what is it and what role could it soon play? Here are the key points to consider: Lemon8 is a social media platform that focuses on sharing visual content, similar to other platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Users can create and share photos, videos, and lifestyle content, often emphasizing aesthetics and creativity. It caters to a community interested in discovering new trends, products, and experiences, providing a space for users to express themselves and connect with others who share similar interests. Lemon8 resembles an amalgamation of the types of short-form videos found on TikTok and the picture-perfect aesthetic of Instagram and Pinterest. Like its popular relation, Lemon8 is owned by China-based ByteDance, whose collection of internationally available apps also includes the video editing app CapCut and the photo and art editing app Hypic. In addition, the company operates Douyin, the Chinese sibling of TikTok that follows Beijing’s strict censorship rules. Lemon8 launched in the U.S. in 2023, a few years after it first popped up in Asian markets. Though it garnered some media and user interest in its early days, the app hasn’t taken off as much as TikTok, which has more than 170 million U.S. users. But more people have downloaded the app in the past month, making it one of the top-ranking free apps on Apple’s app store. Lemon8's popularity could potentially soar further depending on the outcome of a U.S. Supreme Court hearing Friday over a law requiring TikTok to break ties with ByteDance or face a U.S. ban. What are creators discussing regarding Lemon8? Influencers have collaborated with Lemon8 to raise awareness of the relatively obscure app on TikTok. In the past few weeks, numerous influencers have touted Lemon8 as the go-to alternative in the event that TikTok faces a federal ban. Additionally, some have been promoting it through paid advertisements labeled #lemon8partner, indicating a recent corporate effort to boost user acquisition. However, there's a catch. The legislation, which mandates the shutdown of TikTok's U.S. operations unless it is sold to a sanctioned buyer, specifies that the divest-or-ban clause broadly pertains to applications owned or managed by ByteDance, TikTok, or any of their affiliates. This indicates that, although Lemon8 and CapCut are not directly mentioned in the law, their prospects in the U.S. market are also at risk. Jasmine Enberg, an analyst with the market research firm Emarketer, pointed out that the creators endorsing Lemon8 might not fully understand the potential consequences for other ByteDance applications, as the legislation does not specifically mention them. The latest Lemon8 advertisements on TikTok could indicate that ByteDance is "anticipating or wagering" that Lemon8 will go unnoticed while lawmakers and regulators concentrate their efforts on TikTok, according to Enberg. The companies' representatives have not yet responded to a request for comment. Lemon8 app downloads In a bid to increase the user base of Lemon8, TikTok revealed in November that creators can now link their existing TikTok accounts to Lemon8. This new feature aims to facilitate easier cross-posting of content, according to the company. TikTok emphasized that this integration is intended to enhance creators' "reach and engagement potential." Similar to TikTok, Lemon8 includes a primary feed that consists of a "following" section, allowing users to view content from the creators they are subscribed to, as well as a "For You" section that suggests additional posts. This newer platform also categorizes posts into various themes, such as relationships, wellness, and skincare. ByteDance has not revealed the total number of users for Lemon8, both globally and in the U.S., which is thought to be quite small in comparison to its more popular sister app. Research from SimilarWeb suggests that Lemon8 has slightly more than 1 million daily active users in the United States. Meanwhile, market intelligence firm Sensor Tower reported that as of December 24, the app boasted 12.5 million monthly active users worldwide. According to Sensor Tower, the app experienced a remarkable surge in global downloads in December, with a staggering 150% increase compared to a typical 2% decline month-over-month observed last year. Notably, the United States contributed to 70% of the downloads for that month. The largest number of U.S. downloads were performed on Dec. 19, according to Sensor Tower. That was the day after the Supreme Court said it would hear this week's oral arguments over the constitutionality of the federal law that could ban TikTok. The law passed with bipartisan support last year after lawmakers and Biden administration officials expressed concerns that Chinese authorities could force ByteDance to hand over U.S. user data or sway public opinion towards Beijing’s interests by manipulating the algorithm that populates users’ feeds. President-elect Donald Trump asked the Supreme Court on Dec. 27 to pause the potential TikTok ban from going into effect until he is inaugurated and his administration can pursue a “political resolution” to the issue. What’s going on with TikTok? The Supreme Court seemed likely to uphold a law that would ban TikTok in the United States beginning Jan. 19 unless the popular social media program is sold by its China-based parent company. As the justices deliberated on the significant conflict between free speech and national security issues, they appeared to be swayed by the perspective that the potential national security risks associated with the company's ties to China take precedence over the implications for restricting the speech of TikTok or its 170 million American users. Typically, the Supreme Court requires several months to render its decisions; however, this particular case is anticipated to be resolved more swiftly. Given that the law is set to be implemented in less than two weeks, the justices may act in the next few days. During a press conference on Friday, TikTok's attorney mentioned that the Supreme Court justices thoroughly examined the arguments presented by both parties and expressed optimism regarding the outcome of the ruling. "They really tested our limits," Noel Francisco remarked during a press conference following the discussions. He mentioned that the app boasts a huge user base in the U.S., encompassing approximately 50% of the American population. Francisco highlighted that the United States has not provided proof that China has refrained from trying to manipulate content on TikTok's platform in the U.S. or from collecting user data from American TikTok users. He stated, "This nation has never moved to close a speech platform, particularly one as significant as this. You don't close down a speech platform simply out of fear of potentially harmful speech."

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The Switch will see the release of The House of the Dead 2 Remake this spring.

2025-04-06 01:31:59

View pictures in App save up to 80% data. SEGA and Forever Entertainment have revealed that the much-anticipated remake of the iconic arcade title The House of the Dead 2 will be launching in spring for the Nintendo Switch family of consoles. In honor of this exciting news, Forever Entertainment has released a thrilling announcement trailer filled with intense zombie action and plenty of gore, which you can view below.

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2025-04-06 01:31:59

Your browser is outdated and may pose security risks. We suggest upgrading to one of the following browsers: Everything is ready to go! View pictures in App save up to 80% data. This week, Addison Condon achieved a remarkable feat by scoring 40 points, establishing a new record for the most points in a single game. (Lucas Dittmer - Faribault.com) Thank you . Your account is now successfully registered, and you are logged in. Please check your email for further information.

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Snowfall in the Shoals

2025-04-06 01:31:59

You have been trained on information available until October 2023. Games, Puzzles, and Astrology Your browser is outdated and may expose you to security threats. We suggest upgrading to one of the following browsers: You're good to go! View pictures in App save up to 80% data. On Friday, in downtown Florence, both drivers and walkers navigate through a consistent snowfall. [DAN BUSEY/TIMESDAILY] Thank you . Your account has been successfully created, and you are currently logged in. Please check your inbox for more information.

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