Random apps try to install, even after flashing stock rom

[AC Question]

This is really driving me crazy. My phone is a Blackview A5.

Random apps try to install every once in a while.

Some of their names are: "Airplane", "Bike way", "Wifi share" and others.

Since my settings don't allow installing apps outside of google play,
my options are "cancel" and "settings".

I did a factory reset, the problem is still here.
I used "smart flash" to flash the stock rom, still didn't work.
I even lost my IMEI by formatting the phone (fixed that one), but the virus is still here.

I have removed the extra memory from the device, using only the internal memory.

After flashing the stock rom, the virus doesn't try to install apps
UNTIL I CONNECT TO THE INTERNET, even if it's mobile data.

Apps try to install even if I never connect to my google account.

Any ideas?

 

[belodion]

Does it persist in Safe Mode?

 

[Stratubas]

@belodion, No, there where zero installation attempts overnight.
(PS: Can I somehow edit my original post? I made it as a guest)

EDIT: "Airplane" tried to install just now.

 

[belodion]

Okay. That suggests that the trouble may caused by a third-party app rather than any malware. Have you downloaded any that may be the cause of the trouble?

 

[Stratubas]

"Third-party" as in .apk files or from google play? It's been a while since my first factory reset, I don't remember what the last apps that I installed were.

How can such an app "survive" a stock rom reflashing?

 

[Stratubas]

@belodion "Airplane" tried to install even in safe mode View attachment 253080

 

[belodion]

With regard to third-party apps surviving a Factory Reset, they don't, but you have to be sure beforehand that Auto Restore Of Apps is not switched on, otherwise you may be allowing the very app that is the cause of the trouble - in this case, one which downloads other apps - to re-establish itself on your device.

 

[Stratubas]

So, @belodion, now that the problem persists in safe mode, what is different?
Auto restore of apps, from "settings -> backup&reset -> backup my data" has always been off,
and I have never used any third-party system backup software.

 

[belodion]

In that case, there is presumably something system-deep. I suggest asking the manufacturer whether the phone has been designed to do that. If so, return it for a refund.

 

[Stratubas]

I asked at Blackview's forum. I'll post their answer here, in case someone else comes across the same problem.

Thanks a lot! I really appreciate it.

 

[belodion]

You're not alone with this problem. Take a look here:

Blackview A8 installing unwanted apps

https://r.tapatalk.com/shareLink?sh...ms.androidcentral.com/showthread.php?t=723502