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

If you have the “Barcode Scanner” app developed by Lavabird on your smartphone, it’s crucial to uninstall it immediately. Here’s why this seemingly harmless application has become a cause for concern.

Recently, the security experts at MalwareBytes identified that the “Barcode Scanner” app, available on the Google Play Store, has morphed into a destructive malware threat after a recent update. Initially designed to help users scan QR codes and barcodes using their smartphones’ cameras, this app now poses significant risks.

Following its update, numerous users have reported that the app begins bombarding them with intrusive advertisements and links leading to potentially malicious websites—all without their consent. MalwareBytes’ researchers have discovered atypical malicious code within the app that bypasses detection mechanisms like Google Play Protect, raising alarms about its safety.

As of now, there has been no official notification from the Google Play Store regarding this critical issue. This means many users may still be unaware of the risks associated with the app and continue to use it.

If you have this app installed and notice any unusual behavior from your device, it’s time to take action. Go to your Android’s App Settings, locate the application, and specifically check for a package named “com.qrcodescanner.barcodescanner.” If you find it, uninstall it without delay.

For more details on this alarming discovery, you can read the full report by MalwareBytes here.

Thank you for taking the time to read this important message. I appreciate your understanding as I navigate my first post on this platform!