Security firm Symantec has discovered a malicious application that is infecting Android devices and holding them hostage for ransom. The fake antivirus software, known as Android Defender Platinum, isn’t available on Google Play, however it has been making its rounds on third-party app stores and other locations across the Web. The app will scan a device and detect false malware, at which point it requires a user pays a free to clean his or her smartphone or tablet. If the user opts out of payment, the app will periodically remind them of the “infection” and crash the device. It will eventually claim that personal data is being leaked and will then lock the device from being used until a payment

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