Squid Game might be Netflix’s latest (and biggest) obsession, but it’s already had real-world consequences. While no one is recreating the “games” from the show in real-life, a Squid Game app is reportedly installing malware on Android smartphones.
As reported by The Sun, researcher Lukas Stefanko discovered the Squid Game app installing “Joker” malware, and subsequently reported it to Google. This type of malware, among other spying tactics, is known for enrolling devices into wireless application protocol (WAP) services, which can end up racking up a high bill.
While there are many Squid Game apps on the Play Store, this one was called “Squid Game Wallpaper 4K HD.” It is no longer available on the store, but you should ensure you did not install the app on your device. If you did, delete the app immediately.
Always take care of what permissions apps ask for when downloading new ones, and be careful with Squid Game apps in particular; researchers believe hackers will try to capitalize on the show’s popularity by targeting fans through apps.
