Google said on Friday that it has take 60 gaming apps after firm Check Point discovered new malicious software embedded in the apps made available to children and adults at Google Play Store.
The malicious software according to Check Point was reported to have displayed pornographic ads and tried to users into buying premium services.
Dubbed "Adult Swine", the malware hides inside game apps that Google Play data says have been downloaded 3 to 7 million times. The apps weren't part of the family collection, which is based on on a program to help parents discover age-appropriate content on the Play Store.
The malware also sought to trick users into installing fake security apps, and probably open door for other attacks such as theft of user credentials, Check Point said.
It said games and apps made for children were a new target for cyber criminals that targeted hospitals, businesses and governments in the past.
"The most shocking element of this malware is its ability cause pornographic ads(from the attacker's library) to pop up without warning on the screen over the legit game app being dismayed".
The games include Paw Ruppy Run Subway Surf, Shin Hero Boy Adventure Game, Drawing Lessons Lego Ninjago, and Addon Sponge Bob for MCPE.
Check Point said it expected AdultSwine and similar malwares to be repeated, warning users to be extra vigilant when installing.
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