In recent years, Android users have been increasingly targeted by a pervasive scam involving fake warnings about a “Cleaner Update” for their devices. This fraudulent message claims that the user’s device is infected with malware or running slowly, urging them to download a “fix” which is actually unnecessary software or worse – malicious adware or spyware.
This scam is rampant across the web, with popups and advertisements trying to trick users into downloading pointless or dangerous apps. Left unchecked, it can lead to device slowdowns, wasted money, and serious privacy and security issues.
In this article, we’ll break down exactly how the “Cleaner Update” scam works, who is behind it, and most importantly – how Android users can avoid falling victim. Read on for a deep dive into this persistent Android nuisance and what can be done to stamp it out.
Overview of the Scam
The “Cleaner Update” scam takes on a few different forms, but the core technique is the same across most variants:
A popup, webpage, or advertisement warns the user of issues like malware infection, battery drain, or general slowdowns on their Android device.
The message urges urgent action, saying the user must download a “cleaner” app or perform a system update to resolve these alleged issues.
Links lead either to 1) Legitimate but unnecessary “optimization” apps, 2) Adware/spyware masquerading as system utilities, or 3) Scam sites asking for personal information.
Regardless of the endpoint, the operator’s goal is to make money through app affiliate fees, ad clicks, or harvested user data. The apps/fixes either do nothing or actively harm the device.
Some example messages seen in the wild include:
“WARNING! Your Cleaner Update for Android is Available! We have detected that your Chrome is (62%) DAMAGED by Tor.Jack Malware…”
“Your Android is running slow! Download the FREE optimization tool now to speed up your device…”
“ALERT! Battery Drain Detected. Tap here to install the power-saving app and extend battery life…”
As you can see, these scam ads leverage fear and urgency to pressure users into tapping and downloading apps they likely don’t need. The surprising effectiveness of these social engineering tactics is what allows this grift to remain so common.
How the Scam Works
Now, let’s break down how the “Cleaner Update” scam operates from start to finish:
1. Displaying Fraudulent Ads to Users
The first step for scammers is getting their fake warning message in front of as many Android users’ eyes as possible.
To accomplish this, they will commonly:
Purchase cheap banner/popup ad space through networks like Google AdSense.
Take over abandoned apps or websites and fill them with their scam ads.
Register malicious apps to the Google Play Store with their scam ad code hidden inside.
Hack into sites with weak security and inject their scam message.
Send the scam ads via SMS text messaging and social media spam campaigns.
In general, they are aiming for high-traffic channels with limited security – allowing their fake warnings to reach the most potential victims.
2. Making Scam Warnings Appear Urgent and Legitimate
Once they have a user’s attention, the scam operators will utilize known social engineering techniques to maximize likelihood of a tap/download:
They pose as legitimate companies like Google or Android, abusing brand recognition.
Technical jargon like “Tor.Jack Malware” or “62% DAMAGED” give the illusion of a real problem.
Countdown timers, progress bars, and other elements convey false urgency.
Official branding, stolen company logos, and secure padlock icons mimic legitimacy.
Combined, these tricks pressure and confuse users into believing the scam warnings are real – frightening them into tapping without thinking.
3. Redirecting Users to Download Unwanted Apps
When a user taps on one of their scam ads, where exactly does it lead? There are a few common endpoints:
Shady “Optimization” Apps
Many of the cleaner/battery apps linked in scam ads are real programs available on the Google Play Store. However, they generally provide little utility despite claims of speed boosts, battery life extension, and other benefits.
The scammers earn affiliate commissions when they trick users into downloading these apps. Even though they are legal, they are unnecessary bloatware for most people.
Adware/Spyware Apps
In other cases, the landing page links directly to malware masquerading as system utilities. Once installed, these malicious apps bombard the user with intrusive ads, quietly collect personal data, and even enroll the device into botnets.
Phishing/Survey Scam Sites
Finally, some scam ads lead to phony websites rather than apps. These sites mimic Android/Google and claim the user must fill out a survey or provide personal information before they can receive the “cleaner” fix. In reality, they are just harvesting data like emails and names to resell or exploit.
No matter the specific endpoint, the scammers’ objective is to profit off of tricking users through manipulation and deceit.
What to Do If You Are a Victim of This Scam
If you have fallen for the “Cleaner Update” scam, here are the key steps to get your device secured:
Run antivirus scans – Use free antivirus apps like Malwarebytes to check for any spyware or adware infections. Remove anything harmful it detects.
Reset browser settings – Browsers like Chrome may be configured to send traffic to scam sites. Reset them to default configurations.
Change passwords – If you entered any account credentials on phishing sites, change your passwords immediately. Enable two-factor authentication if possible.
Contact your bank – If you shared financial information, check for any fraudulent transactions and notify your bank right away.
Remove unwanted apps – Carefully go through your installed apps list and uninstall anything unnecessary that may have been downloaded via these scams.
Disable lock screen ads – Some malware will spam ads on your lock screen. Go into Settings and disable lock screen ads.
Staying vigilant and taking prompt action can help limit any potential damage from these scams. Be wary of any other suspicious ads or activity on your device afterward.
Is Your Device Infected? Scan for Malware
If your computer or phone is slow, showing unwanted pop-ups, or acting strangely, malware could be the cause. Running a scan with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free is one of the most reliable ways to detect and remove harmful software. The free version can identify and clean common infections such as adware, browser hijackers, trojans, and other unwanted programs.
Malwarebytes works on Windows, Mac, and Android devices. Choose your operating system below and follow the steps to scan your device and remove any malware that might be slowing it down.
Malwarebytes for WindowsMalwarebytes for MacMalwarebytes for Android
Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Windows
Malwarebytes stands out as one of the leading and widely-used anti-malware solutions for Windows, and for good reason. It effectively eradicates various types of malware that other programs often overlook, all at no cost to you. When it comes to disinfecting an infected device, Malwarebytes has consistently been a free and indispensable tool in the battle against malware. We highly recommend it for maintaining a clean and secure system.
Download Malwarebytes
Download the latest version of Malwarebytes for Windows using the official link below. Malwarebytes will scan your computer and remove adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious software for free.
(The above link will open a new page from where you can download Malwarebytes)
Install Malwarebytes
After the download is complete, locate the MBSetup file, typically found in your Downloads folder. Double-click on the MBSetup file to begin the installation of Malwarebytes on your computer. If a User Account Control pop-up appears, click “Yes” to continue the Malwarebytes installation.
Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes
When the Malwarebytes installation begins, the setup wizard will guide you through the process.
You’ll first be prompted to choose the type of computer you’re installing the program on—select either “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer” as appropriate, then click on Next.
Malwarebytes will now begin the installation process on your device.
When the Malwarebytes installation is complete, the program will automatically open to the “Welcome to Malwarebytes” screen.
On the final screen, simply click on the Open Malwarebytes option to start the program.
Enable “Rootkit scanning”.
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware will now start, and you will see the main screen as shown below. To maximize Malwarebytes’ ability to detect malware and unwanted programs, we need to enable rootkit scanning. Click on the “Settings” gear icon located on the left of the screen to access the general settings section.
In the settings menu, enable the “Scan for rootkits” option by clicking the toggle switch until it turns blue.
Now that you have enabled rootkit scanning, click on the “Dashboard” button in the left pane to get back to the main screen.
Perform a Scan with Malwarebytes.
To start a scan, click the Scan button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its antivirus database and begin scanning your computer for malicious programs.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will now scan your computer for browser hijackers and other malicious programs. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Quarantine detected malware
Once the Malwarebytes scan is complete, it will display a list of detected malware, adware, and potentially unwanted programs. To effectively remove these threats, click the “Quarantine” button.
Malwarebytes will now delete all of the files and registry keys and add them to the program’s quarantine.
Restart your computer.
When removing files, Malwarebytes may require a reboot to fully eliminate some threats. If you see a message indicating that a reboot is needed, please allow it. Once your computer has restarted and you are logged back in, you can continue with the remaining steps.
Once the scan completes, remove all detected threats. Your Windows computer should now be clean and running smoothly again, free of trojans, adware, and other malware.
If your current antivirus allowed this malicious program on your computer, you may want to consider purchasing Malwarebytes Premium to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still having problems with your computer after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:
Malwarebytes for Mac is an on-demand scanner that can destroy many types of malware that other software tends to miss without costing you absolutely anything. When it comes to cleaning up an infected device, Malwarebytes has always been free, and we recommend it as an essential tool in the fight against malware.
Download Malwarebytes for Mac.
You can download Malwarebytes for Mac by clicking the link below.
When Malwarebytes has finished downloading, double-click on the setup file to install Malwarebytes on your computer. In most cases, downloaded files are saved to the Downloads folder.
Follow the on-screen prompts to install Malwarebytes.
When the Malwarebytes installation begins, you will see the Malwarebytes for Mac Installer which will guide you through the installation process. Click “Continue“, then keep following the prompts to continue with the installation process.
When your Malwarebytes installation completes, the program opens to the Welcome to Malwarebytes screen. Click the “Get started” button.
Select “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer”.
The Malwarebytes Welcome screen will first ask you what type of computer are you installing this program, click either Personal Computer or Work Computer.
Click on “Scan”.
To scan your computer with Malwarebytes, click on the “Scan” button. Malwarebytes for Mac will automatically update the antivirus database and start scanning your computer for malware.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will scan your computer for adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious programs. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Click on “Quarantine”.
When the scan has been completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes has detected. To remove the malware that Malwarebytes has found, click on the “Quarantine” button.
Restart computer.
Malwarebytes will now remove all the malicious files that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your computer.
After scanning, delete any detected threats. Your Mac should now be free from adware, unwanted extensions, and other potentially harmful software.
If your current antivirus allowed a malicious program on your computer, you might want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still experiencing problems while trying to remove a malicious program from your computer, please ask for help in our Mac Malware Removal Help & Support forum.
Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Android
Malwarebytes for Android automatically detects and removes dangerous threats like malware and ransomware so you don’t have to worry about your most-used device being compromised. Aggressive detection of adware and potentially unwanted programs keeps your Android phone or tablet running smooth.
Download Malwarebytes for Android.
You can download Malwarebytes for Android by clicking the link below.
In the Google Play Store, tap “Install” to install Malwarebytes for Android on your device.
When the installation process has finished, tap “Open” to begin using Malwarebytes for Android. You can also open Malwarebytes by tapping on its icon in your phone menu or home screen.
Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup process
When Malwarebytes will open, you will see the Malwarebytes Setup Wizard which will guide you through a series of permissions and other setup options. This is the first of two screens that explain the difference between the Premium and Free versions. Swipe this screen to continue. Tap on “Got it” to proceed to the next step. Malwarebytes for Android will now ask for a set of permissions that are required to scan your device and protect it from malware. Tap on “Give permission” to continue. Tap on “Allow” to permit Malwarebytes to access the files on your phone.
Update database and run a scan with Malwarebytes for Android
You will now be prompted to update the Malwarebytes database and run a full system scan.
Click on “Update database” to update the Malwarebytes for Android definitions to the latest version, then click on “Run full scan” to perform a system scan.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will now start scanning your phone for adware and other malicious apps. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Click on “Remove Selected”.
When the scan has been completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes for Android has detected. To remove the malicious apps that Malwarebytes has found, tap on the “Remove Selected” button.
Restart your phone.
Malwarebytes for Android will now remove all the malicious apps that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your device.
When the scan is finished, remove all detected threats. Your Android phone should now be free of malicious apps, adware, and unwanted browser redirects.
If your current antivirus allowed a malicious app on your phone, you may want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still having problems with your phone after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:
Restore your phone to factory settings by going to Settings > General management > Reset > Factory data reset.
After cleaning your device, it’s important to protect it from future infections and annoying pop-ups. We recommend installing an ad blocker such as AdGuard. AdGuard blocks malicious ads, prevents phishing attempts, and stops dangerous redirects, helping you stay safe while browsing online.
Frequently Asked Questions About the “Cleaner Update for Android” Scam
1. What is the “Cleaner Update for Android” scam?
This prevalent scam involves fake popups and ads warning users that their Android device is infected with malware or at risk, urging them to download a fake “cleaner” app to fix it. The apps are either unnecessary or contain actual malware.
2. What kind of messages does the scam use?
Typical messages state that the user’s device is damaged, infected, or running slowly. They warn of issues like battery drain or hacking threats. The ads pressure urgent action to download the cleaner app.
3. What techniques do the scammers use?
They use social engineering by posing as real companies, adding technical jargon, using countdown timers, and displaying trust logos. This confuses users into believing the messages are legitimate.
4. Where do the scam ads appear?
Scammers display these ads on cheap ad networks, hacked sites, infected apps, text messages, social media spam, and anywhere with limited security that gets high traffic.
5. What happens when users click on the scam ads?
The ads redirect to unnecessary “optimization” apps, malicious adware/spyware masquerading as tools, or phishing sites asking for personal info before getting the “fix”.
6. How do scammers profit from this scam?
They earn commissions getting users to install apps, make money from forced ad clicks, or harvest and resell user data from phishing pages.
7. What should I do if I fell for this scam?
Run antivirus scans, reset app permissions, change passwords, check for fraudulent transactions, uninstall unnecessary apps, and disable lock screen ads.
8. How can I avoid this scam in the future?
Use common sense, don’t click on suspicious ads and popups, install a reputable antivirus app, and avoid entering sensitive information into random sites.
9. Are there any other similar Android scams I should watch out for?
Yes, common Android scams involve fake virus warnings, offers of free gift cards/prizes, SMS text phishing links, and apps that secretly subscribe you to services.
10. What is the best way to protect my Android device?
Only install apps from the official Google Play Store, keep your device updated, use secure passwords, enable antivirus protection, and avoid clicking questionable links.
The Bottom Line
The “Cleaner Update” scam is one of the most common Android security threats today. Fraudulent warnings about malware and performance issues trick users into downloading useless or dangerous apps.
By leveraging social engineering and legit-looking web pages, these scams are able to infect millions of devices – raking in illicit profits while leaving users’ privacy and security at risk.
Education is our best defense against these predatory frauds. Understand the techniques they utilize, exercise caution when encountering ads/popups, and avoid tapping on anything suspicious or alarmist. With increased awareness, Android users can help consign these “Cleaner Update” scams to the dustbin where they belong.
Stelian leverages over a decade of cybersecurity expertise to lead malware analysis and removal, uncover scams, and educate people. His experience provides insightful analysis and valuable perspective.
