Deceptive Android apps are showing ads after phone calls by abusing special screen permissions. Here is how to find the app, remove it, and stop the pop-ups on your phone.
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What Happened?
The apps often look like ordinary alarms, calendars, messaging services, or other useful tools. Some were available through the Google Play Store.
Researchers at DoubleVerify call them “AfterCall” ads because they appear after a call, outside the app’s normal purpose.
These ads may also encourage users to install questionable cleaners or antivirus apps. Such apps may request more permissions or ask for personal information.
The report did not confirm that any user data was leaked. However, your information may already appear in another data leak without your knowledge.
Checking for leaks can help you notice risks before they lead to suspicious messages or account problems. Futureproof monitors your data for leaks 24/7 and helps you reduce scam risks with simple, clear steps.
Who Was Affected and Was Any Data Leaked?
The total number of affected Android users has not been shared publicly.
Users have reported seeing pop-up advertisements after every phone call. Some initially believed their phone app or Samsung device was causing the problem.
However, the advertisements usually come from another downloaded app with permission to appear over other apps.
The report did not confirm that personal information was leaked. Still, some advertisements may encourage users to install questionable cleaners or antivirus tools.
Installing another untrusted app could create more problems instead of fixing the original issue.
Futureproof keeps your data safer with simple guidance to set a strong password, turn on 2-step verification, and lock down your account.
Check my safetyHow AfterCall Ad Fraud Works
Android normally prevents one app from taking control of the entire screen.
However, apps can request a special setting called “Appear on top.” This setting allows an app to display content over other open apps.
Android does not grant this permission automatically. The user must open the phone settings and approve it manually.
Deceptive apps may provide misleading reasons for requesting access. For example, an alarm app may claim that it needs permission to work while the phone is locked.
Some apps may refuse to open until the user grants permission.
Once approved, the app watches for basic phone events, including when a call begins and ends. It then displays an advertisement when the call finishes.
The app may also remove itself from the Recent Apps screen. As a result, users may have trouble identifying which app caused the advertisement.
At Futureproof, Kevin explains digital safety in simple words, with clear tips and zero fluff. He holds a degree in information technology and studies fraud trends to keep his tips up-to-date.
In his free time, Kevin plays with his cat, enjoys board-game nights, and hunts for New York’s best cinnamon rolls.
