We are also going to give you some useful recommendations to protect yourself and not suffer problems of this type. In many cases, this type of malware It comes from making mistakes. Therefore, knowing what to avoid is essential to be protected and not have security problems on the devices.
spy apps on android
Specifically, these are applications that have been downloaded 421 million times from Google Play. A group of security researchers from Dr. Web have discovered them. They state that those programs have a spyware module and have tracked it down as SpinOk. They are no longer available in the Google app store, but that doesn’t mean that millions of people don’t still have these apps installed.
But what exactly do these apps do? Security researchers indicate that they have the ability to steal private data of the victims, information of all kinds stored on the devices and all of that can be sent to a remote server where cybercriminals will obtain everything.
These programs use Minigames They offer daily rewards. It is basically a system of tasks, of things that the user must do, in exchange for prizes and different raffles. But of course, the strategy is really for the victim to use that program and thus be able to spy on the device.
In the background, the trojan that carries that application, is in charge of tracking the data of the device’s sensor, begins to collect images, videos and any private document. The program works, so the victim does not know what is really happening. It does not detect anything strange, until they steal bank details and account passwords, to later ask for a ransom.
affects one lots of apps. Specifically, this Trojan has been found in 101 programs. Of course, some of them barely have downloads. The most used applications are the following:
- Noizz: is a video and music editor
- Zapya: used to transfer files
- VFly: video editor and creation
- MVBit: also related to video editing
- Biugo: video creator and editor
- Cashzine: to get rewards
You can see the entire list in the Dr. Web report. Logically, if you have a program of this type, it is essential that you remove it as soon as possible.
What to do to protect yourself
But what should you do to prevent this from happening? It’s very important always know what you are installing. Do not use programs that may be dangerous, about which you have little information or do not see that there are good ratings on the Internet. They could be a trap and are widely used for spying.
It is also important to have updated devices. In many cases, hackers take advantage of vulnerabilities to steal data or sneak in viruses of this type. Therefore, try to always have Android with the latest version, as well as any other program you have installed.
On the other hand, having a anti virus can be a good idea sometimes. It comes in handy for detecting malicious software and notifying you as soon as you download a file that might be suspicious. It will prevent you from installing it by mistake and from posing a serious problem for your security.
In short, it is essential that you avoid installing programs of this type on your mobile. In case your phone has been hacked, you should take action as soon as possible to fix the problem. They could be spying on you without you realizing it and that means stealing your personal data and causing it to malfunction.
