This type of problem is not new, since we have seen similar cases on other occasions. Millions of Android devices have been pre-infected with malware. A group of cybercriminals has used this type of device, as well as smart watches, televisions, and TV Boxes, to steal passwords, two-factor authentication keys, hijack WhatsApp sessions, etc. We are going to tell you what the problem is exactly and what you can do.
In total, it is estimated that there are about 9 million affected Android devices. They are based on malware known as guerrilla, which allows loading the malicious software. Avoiding being a victim of this type of threat is essential to maintaining privacy and security when browsing the Internet.
They sneak malware into millions of devices
This discovery has been made since Trend Micro. They indicate that it is related to the Triada Trojan, from 2016. It was a banking Trojan that was found pre-installed in 42 models of low-cost mobile phones. Now, the Lemon Group has done something similar on these Android devices.
Although they have not indicated exactly how they managed to sneak in the malware that Guerilla contains, they did report that the affected devices had reinstalled new ROMs. In all, they identified more than 50 ROMs different infected with such threats and targeting different Android phone vendors.
To achieve this compromise they have been able to use different techniques. They may use modified third-party software, fake firmware update, or even recruit people who work in the manufacturing or distribution chain of those products. With this, they can compromise the devices and achieve the objective.
Now, what can happen if you have a compromised device of this type? They could intercept SMS, WhatsApp messages, set up a reverse proxy from the infected phone, dump Facebook cookies, etc. All this, logically, will seriously compromise privacy and security.
This problem has affected many countries worldwide, although the vast majority corresponds to Asian countries. However, over 3% of the total has been in Europe. It is important to check if they are spying on your mobile and take action immediately.
How to avoid this problem
What can we do to avoid being victims of this type of problem? It is important to always buy the devices in reliable sites. Avoid doing it on pages that may be a fraud, do not trust products that are too cheap and always check the comments and ratings of other customers very well.
From there, it is essential to have the updated appliances but do it correctly. Never install a supposed update from unofficial sources. With that, you could be installing a modified firmware. Always use legitimate platforms to install any type of program.
Also, it is important to use a good anti virus. Having security programs will help detect malicious software and threats that may put privacy at risk. There are many options, but you should always choose one that is guaranteed and that really protects you.
As you can see, there have been a large number of Android devices affected by malware. It is important to always buy reliable products, have updated systems and have security programs that can prevent problems.
