I remember so many applications that are slippery during installation or configuration of the application, like people got used to clicking "Next" when they're trying to install something. Commonly it is an adware from my experience, and it is quite an annoying experience.
Some software also install hidden Bitcoin mining software and you would just notice that it stresses your GPU when you play.
There are some issues with the game league of legends before regarding the mining software attached to the game so when you play, you mine crypto, the only difference is that, you aren't the one gaining money but them.
Going back to the main topic, to secure the best application possible that has its feature regulated is to choose the best downloading platform such as appstore and playstore. Do not use the so called "Black Market" for the sake of having free applications in mobile. The same goes with desktop applications, always verify the site first to secure that what you are trying to download is safe and secured.