Android: One of the most dangerous malware returns to the Play Store

In the category of particularly harmful and profitable malware, Joker is one of the hackers’ favorite malware. First detected in 2019, this malware is able to subscribe users to paid services without their knowledge. In 2020, Joker malware was detected on the Play Store several times before disappearing from circulation. Only for a while.

In early April 2021, computer security researchers found several Joker-infected apps on Huawei’s app store, AppGallery. And on Tuesday, April 20, 2021, McAfee researchers claim to have found one. Similar malware found in 8 apps on Google Play Store.

A procedure similar to Joker’s

These eight apps combine into a total 700,000 downloadsAccording to information received from McAfee experts, this malware, which uses Joker’s mode of operation, intercepts SMS notifications and role play subsequent unauthorized purchasesAfter several weeks of investigation, McAfee teams were able to access the server operated by the attacker.

There, they found a large amount of victims’ personal information, including the targeted users’ phone numbers, various SMS messages, IP addresses, and even their countries of origin. The server also stored auto-renewing subscriptions.”The malware hijacks the Notification List to steal incoming SMS messages without permission to read the SMS, similar to what the Android Joker malware does. specify the researchers.

These eight apps dedicated to photo editing, wallpaper catalogs and ringtones for smartphones, Removed from Play Store by Google. “It’s important to be wary of apps that ask for permissions related to text messages and notifications. Simply put, legitimate photo editing and wallpaper apps don’t ask for these permissions because they’re not necessary for them to work. If a request seems suspicious to you, don’t allow it.” Remember the McAfee researchers.

Below is the list of affected apps:

• Studio Key Paper 2021
• PiP Editor Camera
• My Favorites up Key Paper
• Super Color Hair Dryer
• Shoot the Camera Pip
• Day Night Keyboard Wallpaper
• Super Star Ringtones
• Photo Editor App

Source : ArsTechnica