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Zscaler Report Flags 239 Malicious Google Play Apps as Android Malware Surges 67%

The new ThreatLabz analysis warns of a pivot to mobile payment scams with critical sectors facing sharper risk.

Overview

  • The identified apps amassed roughly 42 million downloads between June 2024 and May 2025 despite marketplace vetting.
  • Adware became the dominant mobile threat at about 69% of detections as Joker fell to 23% year over year.
  • Mobile attack volumes concentrated in India (26%), the United States (15%), and Canada (14%).
  • Energy recorded a 387% annual increase in attacks, while manufacturing and transportation were leading IoT targets.
  • Mirai, Mozi, and Gafgyt comprised about 75% of IoT payloads, and notable threats included Anatsa, Android Void infecting 1.6 million TV boxes, and the Xnotice RAT.