Being a big fan of Clean Master, I download all their latest products and update every patch as soon as possible. My job forces me to keep documents confidential, which is why I make sure my mobile device is protected. However, something that has recently caught my attention was the fact that Clean Master was pulled off the Google Play Store. This raised red flags for me and actually made me panic.
After numerous searches, I was able to find out that Clean Master was pulled off the app store because of privacy issues such as stealing personal info, accessing users’ files, and surveillance issues. I cannot believe that Clean Master would do anything of this nature. All I wanted was a secure and private app that would let me live my private life, but in reality, it did the exact opposite. After doing extensive research, I believe update V4.2.0.832 was when these changes were implemented to steal user data. Below is the changelog.
New changelog:
What's New
V4.2.0.832
Version 4.2 contains new features that will require extra permissions for Clean Master on update e.g. camera permission is needed for the flashlight.
1. Added antivirus engine to protect device security.
2. New floating widget - handle memory, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, etc. in a single tap.
3. Added notifications shortcuts - access frequent apps like flashlight more conveniently.
4. Optimized browser history cleaning.
5. New permissions of Camera, Bluetooth and Network Communication.
After installing the patch, many users complain of significantly reduced battery life and that Clean Master was keeping their devices awake for ridiculous amounts of time. They contacted Clean Master and the reply that they got was “Sorry for that, we developed this version with the function of running in the background, aiming to clean your cell well and truly.” That sounds really suspicious…
All I can hope for is that my files aren’t being shared across the internet or that it was a false alarm. But from what I can see now, it does not seem like it was a false alarm due to the fact that it has already been a month since Clean Master was on the Google Play Store. Please warn your friends and family about Clean Master, nobody likes being watched 24/7.
NOTE: I posted this on Reddit too. Help get the word out. This is a serious issue.
Being a big fan of Clean Master, I download all their latest products and update every patch as soon as possible. My job forces me to keep documents confidential, which is why I make sure my mobile device is protected. However, something that has recently caught my attention was the fact that Clean Master was pulled off the Google Play Store. This raised red flags for me and actually made me panic.
