Google warned this week that users are being targeted with a new threat that could attack their bank balances.
Android users have been warned that their phones could be a target for hackers if they use a popular app, recently banned by Google, that uses a sneaky tactic to install Sharkbot malware. If you download it from the Google Play Store, it should be deleted. right Now.
Identity impersonation problems haunt Twitter.. Another postponement of the paid blue check marks feature
end of list
According to the security team at Bitdefender, an antivirus developed by Romania-based company Softwin, the app called X-File Manager is able to sidestep Google's strict rules by not displaying anything suspicious. When it appears on Google Play.
In fact, the app worked as advertised, and no one knew about the problems it might cause.
Once installed on the device, a pop-up message appears on the screen warning that the app needs a dynamic update. Instead of this upgrade coming through the official Google Play, phone owners are taken to third-party websites where malware is then injected directly onto the device.
By using this dropper tactic, Google is less likely to detect the dangerous app or remove it from its store.
Bitfinder explained more about this threat, “When you download an app on Google Play, it is likely that Google will detect that there is malware in the app, so criminals resort to more deceptive methods. One way is to use an app, which is legitimate with some advertised features, and then The app lures users with more features like a dropper that adds more malicious malware in batches."
The logo of Google Play is displayed at Tokyo Game Show 2019 in Chiba, east of Tokyo, Japan, September 12, 2019. REUTERS/Issei Kato
A common feature of the past few months is harmful applications coming directly from the Google Play Store (Reuters)
X-File Manager is believed to have been downloaded more than 10,000 times, with the majority of installs occurring in the UK.
And if you think that you might be one of the unlucky people who got scammed, then you should remove the app without delay because your phone might be infected with Shark Bot and that could mean your bank account is in danger.
This "evil" malware is fully capable of stealing banking details by installing fake login windows, and intercepting data including SMS messages. Once this data is in the hands of hackers, it can be used to steal money and make transactions without the owner's permission.
"A common feature that we've noticed in the past few months is malicious apps coming directly from the Google Play Store," Bitfinder added. "If something comes from an official store, people might be inclined to think it's safe. Our research has shown that this isn't true, multiple times." .
As a guide, before downloading any apps, it's a good idea to check reviews and look out for negative ones.
Once installed, be careful about updating the app especially if the app starts directing you to websites that have no link to the Google Play Store.
Comments
Post a Comment