Police officers in Belgium are urging Android smartphone and tablet owners to check their devices after 8 popular apps were found to be harbouring the dangerous "Joker" malware. Google has blocked the apps from the Play Store, but can't do anything to remove the software if it's already installed on your handset...

Once installed, Joker has the ability to gain access to text messages, contacts and a lot of other personal information on smartphones. Which can then sign-up unsuspecting users to expensive monthly subscription plans.

If you are concerned by this threat then here is the list of affected applications:

• Auxiliary Message

• Element Scanner

• Fast Magic SMS

• Free CamScanner

• Go Messages

• Super Message

• Great SMS

• Travel Wallpapers