11 Million Devices Infected with Malware – What Praslin Technologies Wants You to Know
September 2024 – Cybersecurity News Update
At Praslin Technologies, we take cybersecurity seriously, especially when it comes to protecting your personal and business data. A recent discovery by cybersecurity experts at Kaspersky has revealed a major malware incident affecting 11 million devices through popular apps on Google Play. This is a stark reminder that even official app stores are not immune to cyber threats.
What Happened? 🤔
Five years ago, a similar threat made its way into Android devices, infecting millions through a malicious software developer kit (SDK). Unfortunately, history is repeating itself. Two new apps have been identified, containing the same malware family known as Necro. These apps were downloaded a staggering 11 million times, using a malicious SDK to inject advertising frameworks that secretly communicate with servers controlled by hackers.
How the Malware Works: 🕵️♂️
The malware, Necro, is sneaky and sophisticated. It hides inside innocent-looking apps and communicates with malicious servers, uploading user data and downloading harmful code. What’s more concerning is its use of advanced techniques, like steganography – a method that conceals malicious code within images, making it extremely difficult to detect.
Here’s a breakdown of what it can do:
- Data Theft: The malware uploads user information to attacker-controlled servers.
- Advanced Techniques: It uses obfuscation and encryption methods to hide its malicious activities.
- Elevated Access: The malware can run code with elevated system rights, bypassing standard Android security measures.
- Modular Design: Necro’s modular structure allows it to change its behavior based on the attacker’s needs, making it highly adaptable.
Affected Apps: 📱
- Wuta Camera: A popular app with 10 million downloads contained the malicious SDK in versions 6.3.2.148 through 6.3.6.148. The latest update has since removed the threat.
- Max Browser: With roughly 1 million downloads, this app was also infected and has now been removed from Google Play.
Additionally, Necro has been found in various “modified” versions of legitimate apps, such as Spotify, Minecraft, WhatsApp, and others, available through unofficial marketplaces.
Praslin Technologies’ Recommendations: 🛡️
To ensure your devices and data are secure, Praslin Technologies advises you to take the following steps:
- Update Apps Regularly: Always update your apps to the latest versions, as legitimate developers often release security patches.
- Install from Trusted Sources: Only download apps from official app stores, and be cautious of modified versions.
- Monitor Device Behavior: Be alert for unusual device behavior, such as unexpected pop-ups, slow performance, or excessive data usage.
- Use Security Software: Install trusted cybersecurity software to detect and block malware threats.
- Regular Security Checks: Reach out to Praslin Technologies for regular security assessments to safeguard your business data and devices.
Need Help? Praslin Technologies Is Here for You! 💡
Worried that your device may be compromised? Our experts can provide a thorough security audit of your systems to ensure your devices are free from threats like Necro.
Protecting your business’s digital assets starts with a proactive approach. Schedule a consultation with Praslin Technologies today to discuss how we can help keep your business safe from cyber threats.
Read the Full Original Article: Ars Technica – 11 million devices infected with botnet malware
#Cybersecurity #PraslinTechnologies #ProtectYourDevices #MiamiTech #DataSecurity #ITSupport
