Windows 10 is Microsoft's computer operating system that is
incredibly popular.
In fact, Windows itself far surpasses its biggest rivals, macOS
and Linux, in terms of monthly users.
Windows 10 comes with the Microsoft Store pre-installed that
allows fans to download apps.
The software is similar to Apple's App Store and the Google Play
Store in terms of its functionality.
The American tech giant has positioned its Store as a safe environment
for users to download new programmes.
However, it appears a handful of applications available pose a
notable security threat to users, a new report has claimed.
Cybersecurity firm Symantec recently stated eight apps on the
Microsoft Store had been found to be harnessing the user's computer performance
to mine cryptocurrency without making them aware of the fact.
The applications accused were Fast-search Lite, Battery
Optimiser, VPN Browser+, Downloader for YouTube Videos, Clean Master+,
FastTube, Findoo Browser 2019 and Findoo Mobile and Desktop Search.
Symantec declared that once any of the programmes in question
were installed and opened, they would proceed to harness CPU power from the
user's computer to mine a cryptocurrency called Monero.
Moreover, it was insisted in the privacy policies for each piece
of software it was not mentioned cryptocurrency would be mined in the
background.
The cybersecurity company explained the programmes in question
could have been downloaded either through the Microsoft Store's section that
lists the best free applications or by searching for them.
It was stated the apps could be downloaded for those running
Windows 10, including Windows 10 S that was pitched by Microsoft as being a
more secure version of the operating system.
Windows 10 S differs from other Windows 10 versions as it only
allows fans to download apps from the Microsoft Store, meaning other programmes
that would typically be acquired through an internet browser, such as Google
Chrome, could not be accessed.
The apps, that came from developers DigiDream, 1clean, and
Findoo respectively, arrived on the Microsoft Store between April and December
2018.
Symantec said it discovered the apps last month and reported
them to Microsoft.
It noted since the report was issued to the American tech giant
the programmes have been removed from the Microsoft Store.
If you have any of the apps specified running on your PC it is
advisable you uninstall them.
Moreover, it is probably of interest to check your computer for
any viruses or malware afterwards.
Express.co.uk has asked Microsoft to explain how the programmes
mentioned made their way onto the store and if the firm is implementing
practices to ensure other applications do not attempt similar functions.
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operating system