Popular Barcode Scanner app caught infecting Android smartphones

A popular barcode scanner app with over 10 million downloads on the Google Play Store has been caught infecting Android devices with malware. The app, simply dubbed Barcode Scanner, has since been removed from the Play Store, but it likely still remains there on many of the infected devices.

As the name implies, the Barcode Scanner app was a simple app that allowed users to scan barcodes and QR codes. But as discovered by security researchers at Malwarebytes, the app received an update in December that added malicious code that was not present in the previous versions of the app. Researchers note the app used heavy obfuscation to avoid detection. And it did work as this malicious update flew under the radar of Google’s Play Protect service, which is in place precisely to detect and takedown such malicious apps. Researchers at Malwarebytes were able to confirm that the app was signed by the same digital certificate as previous versions, hence confirming it was coming from the same developer, LavaBird LTD.

“In the case of Barcode Scanner, malicious code had been added that was not in previous versions of the app. Furthermore, the added code used heavy obfuscation to avoid detection.”

Nathan Collier, mobile malware researcher, Malwarebytes

The app sprung to life within minutes of installation and started bombarding users with adware and automated web redirects to shady websites without user interaction. You can see the malicious activity in the below video:

Malwarebytes says Google was notified privately and has taken the app down from the Play Store. So far, Google hasn’t yet used its Play Protect tool to notify users who still have this malware installed on their phones. That means users must act on their own and remove the app from their phones.

If you have a barcode scanner app installed on your device and have been noticing some odd behavior lately, head to the app settings and look for the app’s package name. If the app has the package name com.qrcodescanner.barcodescanner, uninstall it immediately.

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These are the best OnePlus 8T cases in February 2021

If you just ordered yourself a sweet new OnePlus 8T (and if not, check out our OnePlus 8T review), you’ll want to make sure you can prevent fingerprints, scratches, and dust. As usual, there’s a basic plastic case included with the phone–clear vinyl, flexible, snug-fitting, and emblazoned with a ‘frosted“ ‘Never Settle’ slogan running vertically up the right-hand side. It’s a nice touch that makes it more appealing than a simple clear case, but it also only offers limited protection. What if you want more? Here are some options. There are literally hundreds of phone cases on the market, but how do you know if you’re buying a delight or a dud? Allow us to help with our guide to the best OnePlus 8T cases!

Official OnePlus 8T Sandstone Case

Good old faithful

The old classic is back. The sandstone is a rigid clip-on case which previous OnePlussers will probably be familiar with. The big attraction of this one is that it has a slightly rough-hewn surface which makes it easier to grip because let's face it, these smooth phones can be slippery little suckers. The Sandstone case is available in Black or Cyan.

$25 at OnePlus

OnePlus 8T Karbon Bumper Case

The best official case

Old faithful of the OnePlus case world, the Karbon is at the top end of the official designs. The familiar hard case with subtle diagonal pin-stripes is designed to add the maximum in knock and drop protection, with the lowest profile, most sympathetic to your sexy new handset. That level of design comes at a premium of course, and the Karbon is available in black only.

$40 at OnePlus

Otterbox Symmetry 8T Case

Affordable premium protection

Otterbox doesn’t always make the most exciting cases, but they’re tough as old boots, and we mean that in the nicest possible way. Largely, the Symmetry is similarly low-profile like the official Karbon case, but with the added bonus of slightly raised edges around the camera and touchscreen, which provides much better protection. Symmetry cases comply with DROP+, which is measured as 3x the protection of a military-grade case.

$38 at Amazon

dBrand OnePlus 8T Grip Case

Perfect for customization

One case. Many customizations. That’s the promise with dBrand, offering a 2mm thick case, including a design that encases the side buttons, protecting them whilst leaving more of the screen-free - an important consideration for a near bezel-less device. There are gripping edges down the sides which can be customized to your preferred color from a huge gamut and the whole thing reaches military protection ratings. dBrand also offers skins to be applied directly to the outer casing of your phone, but for full protection, the Grip Case is the way to go.

Starting at $40 at dBrand

UAG 8T Plasma Series Case

Best for butterfingers

Under Armor’s phone cases are among the toughest we’ve seen, combining a stiff translucent body with a rigid toughened frame. As a result, they do tend to add a bit of bulk to your phone, but even so, hardly any extra weight. As ever, it complies with Military Grade drop-protection standards and yet, thankfully, doesn't impact wireless charging or contactless payments. The translucent section is currently available in 'Ice' Blue which complements the handset perfectly. If you want big protection and don't mind making a bigger phone, this OnePlus 8T case should definitely be on your shortlist.

$40 at UAG

Olixar OnePlus 8T Leather-Style Wallet Stand Case

Great value with great features

The first folio-style case to make our list, we've chosen Olixar's thanks to the company's track record for producing great value cases without compromising on quality. There are the usual carbon-fiber offerings on offer, but we've decided to shine a light on the Wallet Stand, thanks to its imitation leather, three card slots, plus one larger slot of notes or receipts, magnetic clasp, and full compatibility with wireless charging and NFC payments. The whole folio can be rejigged to create a stand for the phone - great for games and watching videos.

$13 at Olixar

Simicoo Leather Wallet Case

Swiss Army Knife of Cases

This cowhide leather Simicoo product can be best described as a 'handbag' (or 'manbag'). The phone is kept in a matching slimline case that tucks into a specially designed slot in the wallet section. That wallet section has 11 slots to cover everything from notes and credit cards to your earbuds. There's also a magnetic clasp, whilst the crucial pockets have zippers and there's still room for the whole thing to become a kickstand. It won't show off your phone, but if you want an all-in-one solution for your stuff, this could be perfect. It's available in a choice of Blue, Black, Brown or Red (which is actually pink).

Buy at Amazon

Tereyi OnePlus 8T Ultra-Slim Patterened Silicone Case

Best for Style over Substance

We chose this one purely to show you that not all cases for the OnePlus 8T are one color! These Tereyi cases are simple, transparent silicone cases, similar to the one you'll find in the box with your phone. But if you don't want to walk around for the next year with 'Never Settle' across the back of your phone, there are six decal designs to choose from - baby elephants, pandas, kittens, and of course the ubiquitous 'Live Laugh Love' slogan. Not the highest spec cases on this list, more one for the Insta-crowd.

Buy at Amazon

Qitayo Crystal Clear Case

Show Off Your Phone

If you like seeing the back of your phone, you'll definitely want a clear case. Qitayo's case is thin and clear, giving you a small amount of protection while still being able to see your OnePlus 8T in its full glory. It's also the cheapest in this list, so give it a go for something simple and sweet. You get a fairly decent level of protection, and you can let your phone retain most of its character. While not included, this case also might work out if you like to rock a skin but want some protection sometimes when you go out.

Buy at Amazon

Spigen Ultra Hybird Case

Durable and Thin

Looking for something that will protect against most normal smartphone wear-and-tear, but don't want to bulk out your phone? Get the of both worlds with the Spigen Ultra Hybrid case. This case has a nice protective bumper, but isn't so thick that it'll get in your way. The sweet spot between two worlds.

Buy at Amazon

Ringke Fusion-X Case

You'll Never See It

Like camo? You'll love Ringke's Fusion-X case. This durable case has a unique semi-transparent design that lets parts of your OnePlus 8T's exterior peek through the camo design. It's pretty neat when you look at it, but there are also clear versions of the case if camo isn't your thing.

Buy at Amazon

Nillkin CamShield Case

Protect the Lenses

Most cases don't do a very good job of protecting your camera lenses. They can get scratched too! Nillkin's CamShield case, however, has a slider on the back that will help you protect your camera when not in use. When you want to take a picture, just slide the protector away, and you're good to go!

Buy at Amazon

Our favorite pick of all the cases is the OnePlus 8T Karbon Bumper case. The Karbon series has been around since the early days of OnePlus and it’s proven consistently to be reliable. If you have slippery fingers and couldn’t transport an egg in the egg-and-spoon race at school, you’ll want to pick up the Otterbox Symmetry Case. If you want something a bit more unique, check out the Simicoo Detachable Leather Wallet!

The OnePlus 8T also ships with a basic clear silicon case, which should serve most users for the initial week of use. But as is the nature with clear silicon cases, it does develop a yellow tint over time as you use it naturally in the sunlight. So it’s best that you do explore some options in case you want some protection for your phone. These cases that we recommend should hold the fort well and let you use your phone with fewer worries. So grab one and ensure that you don’t get any serious damage to your brand new phone!

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The Fitbit app now helps you track your blood glucose level

Fitbit is kicking off 2021 with a helpful new feature: blood glucose tracking. The new feature will become widely available throughout February in the Fitbit app to all users in the U.S.

To be clear, this feature is simply meant to track your blood glucose level; Fitbit’s devices aren’t equipped with the technology that can read blood glucose directly. Incidentally, the ability to meter blood sugar may be coming to mainstream wearable devices later this year.

Fitbit says the new feature is being added so users can more easily track how their blood glucose levels change and how they’re impacted by everything from food to sleep to other lifestyle choices. Users can set personalized ranges, reminders, and more. The Fitbit app will then give users a look at trends over time.

“In addition to the ability to track blood glucose, Fitbit Premium members gradually will have access to seeing how often their glucose levels fall within their target range over a 30 day period, along with correlations between when they take a reading and their levels as well trends in this data,” Fitbit said in a blog post. “Members can also share their blood glucose levels as part of their Wellness Report with their healthcare provider to help your care team offer more personalized guidance for your care.”

Fitbit app users can manually input their blood glucose levels or connect their OneTouch Reveal app from LifeScan, which will automatically import that information. Fitbit said support for other meters and services is coming soon.

A chronic excess of blood sugar can lead to high blood pressure, strokes, and heart attacks, so keeping track of this information is very important, especially for those who have diabetes. Fitbit’s support for tracking is a nice way to integrate with the other health information provided by the company’s fitness trackers.

The company notes that the new blood glucose feature isn’t a replacement for medical advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any medical condition. “It is intended to simply help monitor and keep track of your information.”

Fitbit (Free⁺, Google Play) →

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Your Xbox Series X/S controller can memorize Bluetooth pairings for easy switching

Here’s a helpful tip for those who use an Xbox Series X/S controller for gaming: The peripheral has a “memory sync” feature that allows users to easily switch between devices likes the Xbox, PC, and mobile.

First noted by Reddit a few months ago and then recently highlighted by Timo Wolf on Twitter, the feature makes cross-platform gaming a little more seamless. The feature is only now coming to light because there doesn’t appear to be any official documentation explaining how it works. That’s where the internet comes in.

“Using your Xbox Series X/S controller with console & PC/mobile for Xbox Game Pass frequently? Xbox Series controllers can memorize sync!” Wolf wrote on Twitter.

To use the feature, just follow the steps below:

• Hold sync to recall the last PC/mobile device (flashing 2-3x)
• Double-tap sync to switch back to your Xbox (flash once)

If you’re still unsure about how to best execute the feature, Wolf made a video showing it in action. It’s like using a keyboard with multi-device support to quickly switch between multiple devices.

Using your @Xbox Series X|S controller with console & pc/mobile for @XboxGamePass frequently? #XboxSeries controllers can memorize sync!
-> Hold "sync" to recall last mobile/PC device (flashing 2-3x)
-> Double-tap "sync" to switch back to your #Xbox (flash once)#XboxSeriesX pic.twitter.com/0avzjoOdre

— Timo Wolf (@OmitFlow) February 8, 2021

“Important: Learned through feedback this does not work to switch between Xbox & Xbox Wireless Adapter,” Wolf said. “Only Xbox & Bluetooth connection.”

The feature right now works with Xbox, PC, and Android devices. Speaking of which, the upcoming release of iOS 14.5, which will include App Tracking Transparency, will include support for Xbox Series X/S controllers, so we’ll see if the syncing feature is also supported.

To be fair, Microsoft did acknowledge the feature’s existence when it talked about the Series X’s controller at the beginning of 2020. There just doesn’t appear to be much documentation educating users.

“The new controller also remembers multiple devices so switching between them is more seamless,” Xbox’s Ryan Whitaker previously explained.

Wolf said this feature doesn’t work with older Xbox One controllers, nor does it appear to work with the Xbox Elite 2 controller.

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Keep your browsing truly private with up to 72% off Windscribe VPN Pro

Running a VPN is the best way to keep your online activity concealed from trackers and protected from hackers. Windscribe VPN has a strict no-logging policy to ensure your activity cannot leak. It also plays nicely with torrents and blocks ads automatically. Right now, you can get a one-year Pro subscription for just $55.99 at the XDA Developers Depot.

https://www.youtube.com/embed/6BvEtiS5ga0

Whether you are more concerned about privacy or accessing online content, Windscribe VPN gets the job done. Rated at 4.4 stars on G2 and  “Very Good” by Tom’s Guide, this service has masking servers in 110 cities for excellent speed around the world.

An encrypted tunnel keeps your connection secure on public networks, and you have three VPN protocols to choose from. If you don’t fancy diving into the settings, you can connect instantly via the desktop and mobile apps.

One subscription covers unlimited devices with uncapped data, so Windscribe is a good choice for streamers. The strict no-logging policy guarantees your privacy, and you can even sign up without an email address.

In addition, Windscribe improves your online experience by blocking ads, trackers, and malware as you browse. You can even set up port forwarding to access services on your PC from anywhere.

Order today for $55.99 to get one year on the Pro plan, which is normally priced at $108. 

For even bigger savings, get two years for $69.99 (reg, $216) or three years for $89.99 (reg. $324).

 

Windscribe VPN Pro Plan: 1-Yr Subscription – $55.99

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Samsung brings Android 11 to its Galaxy A51 5G, Galaxy A71 5G, and Galaxy M30s

Samsung is bringing Android 11 with One UI 3.0 to three more devices this week, growing its portfolio of handsets that feature the latest version of Android. The devices being updated are: Galaxy A51 5G, Galaxy A71 5G, and Galaxy M30s.

It appears the firmware update for the Galaxy M30s is only available in India at the moment, but it should roll out to additional markets in the coming days. The latest firmware version is identified as M307FXXU4CUAG, with the update weighing in at nearly 2GB.

The same update of Android 11 with One UI 3.0 is also rolling out to the Galaxy A51 5G and Galaxy A71 5G. Samsung recently introduced the same update to the Galaxy A51 and Galaxy Cover Pro, and also began beta testing the release for the Galaxy A51 5G.

Android 11 with One UI 3.0 update for the Galaxy M30s

With such an expansive portfolio of mid-range and high-end devices, it’s difficult to keep track of what Samsung has updated to Android 11 with One UI 3.0. The company has constantly updated devices with stabled and beta releases, which is remarkable considering the amount of products it releases.

All of the updated firmware releases include the January 2021 security patch, according to the release notes.

Samsung describes One UI 3.0 as being designed to help users focus on what matters.

“Our visual redesign has improved the places you visit the most, like the Home screen and quick panel, to reduce distractions, highlight important information, and make your experience more consistent,” Samsung’s release notes explain. “Performance improvements will help apps run quicker while using less battery power. And One UI 3 puts control in your hands with new privacy controls, one-time permissions, and enhanced Digital Wellbeing.”

If your Samsung device hasn’t yet been updated to Android 11 with One UI 3.0, Samsung has shared a roadmap that includes a few dozens devices, from the Galaxy Fold to the Galaxy Tab A.

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The Samsung Galaxy S21 series sees its first flat discount, and it’s a good one

Good things come to those who wait. There’s been a lot of hype surrounding the Samsung Galaxy S21 series of phones, and the hype is justified–The S21 Ultra is pretty darn good! The next line of flagships is expensive, though, with the Ultra retailing at $1,200. It’s painful for the wallet, but if you’re frugal, you know to wait for a nice deal to take the sting out of the price tag a bit. This time, you didn’t have to wait long either, with the series getting a flat discount of up to $200 at multiple retailers.

That’s right, it’s just up to $200 off the MSRP. No trade-ins, no nonsense with rebates or coupons, nothing. Just $100 off the Samsung Galaxy S21 and $200 off the Galaxy S21 Plus and S21 Ultra. This isn’t just available at one retailer, either–the discounts are live at Amazon, Best Buy, and B&H Photo and Video. So you have all sorts of choices ahead of you!

With Amazon, you can use Prime Shipping to get your new S21 in just two days. Also, with the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa, you have an option to pay over 18 months, which makes the cost barrier even lower than the competition. Finally, well, almost everyone uses Amazon for online orders, so it’s not too difficult to just hit that ‘Buy Now’ button and not worry about your Galaxy S21 until it’s at your door.

Galaxy S21 at Amazon

Save $100

Galaxy S21 Plus at Amazon

Save $200

Galaxy S21 Ultra at Amazon

Save $200

At Best Buy, you’ll get the $100 or $200 discount like Amazon. However, Best Buy also gives a $50 discount if you activate the unlocked Samsung Galaxy S21 series phone today! So if you already know your carrier or are switching to one available at Best Buy, it’s the perfect way to save a little extra.

Galaxy S21 at Best Buy

Save $150

Galaxy S21 Plus at Best Buy

Save $250

Galaxy S21 Ultra at Best Buy

Save $250

Finally, we have B&H Photo and Video. As I mentioned before, they’re a great retailer in terms of tech deals, and while not as well known as Amazon or Best Buy, they’re worth making an account for just for some of the incredible deals they have. In this case, they have the $100 and $200 discounts on the Samsung Galaxy S21 phones, but they’re probably not going to sell out as quickly as the other two retailers. So, if Amazon and Best Buy are sold out of the phone of your choice, make sure to check B&H!

Samsung Galaxy S21 at B&H

Save $100

Galaxy S21 Plus at B&H

Save $200

Galaxy S21 Ultra at B&H

Save $200

This is a great discount, but there’s no telling how long it’ll last. If you miss out, though, you can always check our Samsung Galaxy S21 deals and Galaxy S21 Ultra deals posts to see how else you can save on this new flagship!

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