A cybersecurity firm, Kaspersky, has discovered several malicious Telegram clones for Android on Google Play.
The apps were disguised as faster alternatives to the original Telegram app, but they actually contained additional code that stole user messages, contact lists, and other data.
The apps were installed over 60,000 times before Google was alerted to the issue. Google has since removed the apps from Google Play, but it is possible that some users may still have them installed on their devices.
Bijay Pokharel
Bijay Pokharel is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Abijita.com and a freelance technology writer covering the tech industry since 2017. He specializes in cybersecurity, digital privacy, malware, vulnerabilities, and online safety, with a strong interest in internet protection and women’s online security. A dedicated tech enthusiast and continuous learner, Bijay approaches his professional work with clarity, rational thinking, and a calm, solution-oriented mindset.





