Malware targeting Android devices has been around since 2010, and it’s become increasingly sophisticated over the years. The latest variant being spotted on Google Play by Palo Alto Networks researchers can steal SMS codes used to authorize payments and empty victims’ mobile account balances. Dubbed Android/Spy.Agent.NZ by the researchers, this malware can be used in multiple ways, including bypassing 2-factor authentication by stealing one-time passcodes sent via SMS or using them to send premium rate text messages that cost the victim money but generate profit for the attacker… New Android Malware Steals Money from Mobile Balance
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The name of the malware
This new Android malware is called FakeApp and it’s designed to empty your mobile balance. The malware masquerades as a legitimate app, but once installed, it will send premium SMS messages that will cost you money. FakeApp is currently circulating in China, but it could spread to other countries. If you have an Android phone, be sure to only download apps from trusted sources and avoid clicking on links that you don’t recognize.
How it works
The malware, dubbed DrainerBot, is designed to target Indian users and steal money from their mobile balance. The malicious app is disguised as a legitimate app, such as a game or a utility, and is available for download on third-party app stores. Once installed, the app will secretly subscribe the user to premium services that will drain their mobile balance. In some cases, the app will also send SMS messages to premium numbers,
further draining the victim’s balance. Drainerbots are difficult to detect and remove, but there are some things you can do to protect yourself. First, only download apps from trusted sources, such as the Google Play Store. Second, be sure to check the permissions an app requests before installing it.
Why you should care
This new Android malware is a serious threat to users because it can empty your mobile balance without your knowledge. The malware, which is currently circulating in China, could spread to other countries and impact a larger number of people. If you have an Android device, it’s important to be aware of this threat and take steps to protect yourself. Here’s what you need to know about the malware and how to protect yourself from it.
What to do if you think you are infected
If you think you may be infected with this malware, there are a few things you can do. First, check your mobile balance and see if there has been any unusual activity. If you notice any unauthorized charges, contact your carrier immediately. You should also run a security scan on your device to see if any malicious apps have been installed. If you find any, delete them immediately. Finally, change all of your passwords and enable two-factor authentication on all of your accounts. By taking these steps, you can help protect yourself from this and other types of malware.
If you own an Android phone
You might want to be extra careful about what apps you download. A new form of malware has been discovered that can empty your mobile balance, and it’s targeting Android users. The malware, which is disguised as a legitimate app, is able to send SMS messages without the user’s knowledge or permission. Once it’s installed, it can drain your account balance by sending premium text messages to premium numbers. So far, the malware has only been spotted in China, but it’s possible that it could spread to other countries. If you have an Android phone, be sure to only download apps from trusted sources and keep an eye out for any suspicious activity.
How does it operate?
This new malware, called Balance Hijack, is designed to steal money from your mobile balance. It does this by secretly subscribing you to premium services, and then hiding the charges on your bill. This can quickly empty your balance, and leave you with a hefty bill to pay. To make matters worse, this malware is difficult to detect and remove. If you think you may be infected, the best course of action is to contact your carrier or a professional malware removal service.
What kind of damage could it do?
A new form of Android malware has been discovered that can empty a user’s mobile balance, leaving them with no way to make calls or use data. The malware, which is currently being dubbed Balance Hijack, works by sending premium SMS messages to premium numbers without the user’s knowledge or consent. This can quickly rack up a large bill that the user is then responsible for paying. In some cases, the malware has also been known to delete any incoming SMS messages so that the user is unaware that their balance is being depleted.
