Flappy Bird Returns, But Experts Warn: Don’t Download It Yet
Flappy Bird is back for Android in 2025, but users are warned not to download the APK due to malware risks and lack of source code transparency.
image for illustrative purpose
A version of the once-iconic mobile game Flappy Bird has resurfaced in 2025, sparking nostalgia among longtime Android users. But cybersecurity concerns are rising over how the game has returned — and where it’s being hosted.
A Reddit user recently showcased a re-engineered version of the original Flappy Bird, updated to work on modern 64-bit Android devices. This unofficial APK claims to replicate the classic gameplay. However, there are growing concerns over the safety of this file.
The APK is available via a GitHub link — but without any access to its source code. Typically, open-source projects include code repositories for transparency. In this case, the developer has no previous coding history and hasn't released the project’s internal code, making verification impossible.
Soon after the app was shared online, several users reported malware detection during security scans, specifically flagging a potential Trojan (“Trojan-:Script/Wacatac.B!ml”). While the developer insists the alert is a false positive, the issue has sparked skepticism.
Adding to the concern, the project was swiftly removed from GitHub, and the download link was shifted to MediaFire — a less secure, ad-heavy file-sharing platform. These developments have made Android enthusiasts and cybersecurity professionals wary.
Experts stress that while downloading APKs is common in Android communities, doing so from unknown developers without code transparency poses serious risks. With no track record or verifiable information, users cannot ensure the APK is safe.
The developer has said that source code will be released soon. However, with the game now hosted off GitHub and no clear timeline for a public release of the code, trust remains low.
For those eager to revisit Flappy Bird, safer options exist. A revamped version of the game was recently added to the Epic Games Store. Though not an exact replica, it offers similar gameplay with added modes — and has been vetted for security.
Downloading unofficial APKs without clear verification always comes with risk. Until the developer publishes source code and the file is confirmed clean, users are advised to avoid installing the re-released Flappy Bird APK.
