Urgent warning issued to a certain type of mobile phone user due to a new virus threat to apps
- Australians warned about app viruses
- Three viruses target Androids
- Malware hidden in safe-looking apps
Phone users across Australia are being warned about a series of app hijacks spreading malicious viruses.
There are three viruses in circulation – related to 19 apps on Android devices – designed to steal private data and sign up users for premium services.
Android phones are the targets of the attacks, with one malware strain having been downloaded more than three million times because it is an open source operating system, meaning it can run any third-party app.
The operating system opens up devices to cyberattacks with the malware hidden in otherwise safe-looking apps.
There are three viruses in circulation – related to 19 apps on Android devices – designed to steal private data and sign up users for premium services
MalwareFox said cybercriminals can download apps from the Google Play Store and manipulate them.
“Cybercriminals download common apps from Google Play, add malicious code to them, and then submit the modified versions to Google Play under a new name,” MalwareFox said in a statement.
“The functionality indicated in the app’s description may still be present, so users may not even be aware of a vulnerability.”
Cybersecurity company MalwareFox has shared a list of viruses already in circulation, as well as the apps that contain them.
It said GinMaster, also known as GingerMaster, was first detected in 2011, but now accounts for 6 percent of total Android malware attacks.
“After entering the device, the GinMaster installs its root shell deep into the device partition to remain unnoticed.”
The malware attaches itself to “legitimate” apps and users install them inadvertently.
Android phones are the target of the attacks, with one strain of malware already downloaded more than three million times because it is an open source operating system
Other harmful spyware to watch out for include:
Joker spyware
This aptly named spyware collects data from contact lists and text messages and can register the device for premium content with the user’s knowledge.
It can be found in the following apps:
– Simple note scanner
– Universal PDF scanner
– Private messenger
– Premium SMS
– Blood pressure monitor
– Cool keyboard
– Paint art
– Message in color
Harry Trojan horse
The malware can also sign users up for services that monetize the infection.
It can be found in:
– Rate Gamehub and Box
– Hope Camera-Picture Record
– Same Launcher and Live Wallpaper
– Awesome wallpaper
– Cool Emoji editor and sticker
Anyone concerned can view the full list of malware here.