As an Android user, you currently have to be on your guard against dangerous spyware. It mainly targets your messengers like WhatsApp.
A spyware masquerades as a VPN app and steals your WhatsApp data. (Source: Leeestat /depositphotos.com)
Cyber criminals have come up with a new way to infect your Android devices with malware. Fake SecureVPN sites serve as carriers for a spyware app that not only steals data from messengers like WhatsApp, but also takes over your entire smartphone.
As the security researchers from ESET report, the hackers proceed systematically when spreading. You cannot easily find the fake VPN sites on the internet. The links to the websites are sent to you in a targeted manner via phishing mail. If you open the link in the mail, you will be presented with the supposed VPN app for your protection. If you download this, you do the complete opposite.
After installation, the app requires extensive access rights to your Android device, which are said to be necessary for the VPN function. Once the spyware has gained these rights, it can be controlled remotely by the cybercriminals and scan your entire phone. SMS messages, recorded phone calls, location, device accounts, and chats from messengers like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, Signal, Viber, and Telegram are all stolen and sent to a server.
Also interesting…
The security experts have now identified eight different versions of the spyware. None of the fake apps have ever been offered on the Google Play Store. We advise you never to open links from unknown emails. Even with contacts you know, you should be suspicious. The same applies to apps from unknown sources. Under no circumstances should you download them. You can also protect yourself with virus protection for your Android mobile phone.
Don’t miss anything with the NETWORK-Newsletter
Every Friday: The most informative and entertaining summary from the world of technology!