Urgent Warning: Remove the “Barcode Scanner” App from Your Device Immediately

If you’ve recently downloaded the “Barcode Scanner” app by Lavabird from the Google Play Store, it’s time to take immediate action and delete it. Here’s what you need to know.

Recently, the cybersecurity research team at MalwareBytes uncovered a troubling finding regarding the “Barcode Scanner” application, which has been downloaded millions of times. This app, initially designed to help users scan QR codes and barcodes using their smartphone cameras, has transformed into a source of significant concern.

The company Lavabird, responsible for this application, pushed an update that changed its functionality drastically. Instead of merely facilitating barcode scanning, the app is now sending a barrage of advertisements and links that could potentially redirect users to harmful websites, all without their consent.

MalwareBytes researchers have identified previously unseen malicious code within this new version of the app. Alarmingly, these codes are crafted to evade detection by Google Play Protect, the security feature designed to safeguard users from harmful applications.

As of now, there has been no official communication from the Google Play Store regarding this issue, leaving many users unaware of the risks they face. If you have this app installed and notice any unusual behavior on your smartphone, it is crucial to act swiftly.

To remove the app, navigate to your Android device’s App Settings. Look for the package name com.qrcodescanner.barcodescanner and uninstall it immediately to avoid any further potential threats.

For more detailed information, you can check the official blog from MalwareBytes here.

Thank you for reading, and I appreciate your understanding as I share this important information with the community. Please feel free to leave feedback or ask any questions you may have!