Tag Archive for: Billions

Billions of Android owners warned of ‘bank-raiding’ attack that can even get around security checks

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ALL Android owners have been warned over a new strain of malware that can hide from antivirus programmes.

It is reportedly capable of stealing sensitive data, such as banking information and also deploying nasty ransomware.

It can record all ongoing calls and steal contacts from the victim’s deviceCredit: Getty Images – Getty

Ransomware is a type of virus which stops users from being able to access their own devices – as well as everything that’s stored on it.

It encrypts files and leaves the device essentially useless and the user locked out.

Criminal cyber gangs use this as a ploy to demand ransom from their victim.

Cybersecurity experts at CloudSEK’s threat intelligence research team rang the alarm on this new form of virus.

The malware, which researchers have dubbed Daam, is targeting Android phones as well as Windows PCs.

But Daam was found to be particularly invasive on mobile phones.

It has the ability to record audio from an Android device, without any action from the owner of the phone.

Not only can it also read call logs, but it can record all ongoing calls and steal contacts from the victim’s device.

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Even WhatsApp calls – or audio conversations via other messaging apps – aren’t safe.

This means that if Android owners disclose any sensitive information in those calls – such as banking details – it could be used against them.

The malware is being downloaded accidentally by unsuspecting Android owners when they visit third-party sites, according to researchers.

To stay safe, it’s important Android owners make sure they only download apps from legitimate sources.

It’s also helpful to check reviews before downloading anything, and to make sure the phone’s operating and security systems are up to date.

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Billions of Android and iPhone owners urged to check signs a criminal is hiding in your device – don’t lose everything

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SECURITY experts have warned smartphone users about major signs that criminals are hoping to hack their device.

Androids and iPhones are pretty safe gadgets but no device is fully hackproof, according to cybersecurity experts at Trend Micro.

Hackers have several techniques when it comes to infiltrating smartphonesCredit: Getty

They wrote in a recent blog post: “Unfortunately, no device can ever be 100% hackproof, and the iPhone is no exception.”

The blog lists three potential ways that a hacker can infiltrate your phone.

They’re all pretty common and you may have some of the red flags on your device right now.

EVIL APPS

The first hacking route the experts pointed out was “malicious apps.”

It’s normal to download apps onto your smartphone, but cybercriminals rely on you not checking what you’re downloading.

You have to be wary of all apps you download onto your device and make sure you’ve double checked the permissions that they want to access.

Try reading the apps reviews and only downloading from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

DANGEROUS WI-FI

The Trend Micro experts also warned against using insecure Wi-Fi networks, especially public Wi-Fi.

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Cybercriminals can take advantage of your need to be online and steal data from your device.

Even the FBI has warned to be wary of public Wi-Fi.

“Preventing internet-enabled crimes and cyber intrusions requires each of us to be aware and on guard,” the FBI wrote in a recent announcement.

“Be careful when connecting to a public Wi-Fi network and do not conduct any sensitive transactions, including purchases, when on a public network.”

PHISHING MESSAGES

The third threat on the list could be lurking in your email app or text message inbox.

Phishing emails and texts sit waiting on devices, often containing dangerous links, and attachments.

Delete any suspicious messages without clicking on links or revealing any private information.

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Billions of Android and iPhone users warned to delete messages immediately after ‘bank-draining’ attack alert

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SECURITY experts have revealed a staggering rise in smartphone phishing scams.

The amount unexpecting people click on the dangerous phishing links has risen by 637% in just two years.

Phishing attacks are said to be on the rise, especially via your smartphoneCredit: Getty

That’s according to The Global State of Mobile Phishing recently released by Lookout.

It states: “2022 had the highest percentage of mobile phishing encounter rates ever — with over 30% of personal and enterprise users exposed to these attacks every quarter.”

And adds: “These attacks are the tip of the spear for more advanced campaigns.

“They can grant attackers access to your apps and data under the guise of being a legitimate user.”

The report claims that over 50 percent of all mobile devices were exposed to a phishing attack in 2022.

Attacks bombard long lists of smartphone users with phishing emails and text messages hoping they can get as many people to click as possible.

Sometimes they target specific people if they want access to where they work or view their personal data as particularly valuable.

Around 36 percent of US smartphone users were said to encounter phishing attacks.

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HOW TO AVOID A PHISHING SCAM

Firstly, you should be thorough when checking who the email is from.

Even if it looks official, double-check the email and look for any spelling mistakes or slight abnormalities in the sender’s email address.

Never feel pressurised into opening an attachment and avoid clicking the phrase “enable content.”

You should also be wary of links in emails.

If you’re certain an email you have received is a scam, report it to your email provider and delete it.

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Billions of iPhone and Android owners warned over ‘cursed movie’ – one click steals your money and puts you in danger

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IT’S almost time for the Oscars and cyber criminals are hoping to cash in on unsuspecting movie fans.

Security experts at Kaspersky are warning that one of the most popular Oscar-nominated movies is being used to steal people’s data and even money.

Security experts are warning about a fake movie scamCredit: Getty

Scammers are said to be creating fake websites that offer victims a fake chance to stream nominated movies for free.

The aim is to steal personal and banking information from victims and sell this on the dark web.

Kaspersky experts have found several websites that aim to do just that.

They ask for “small subscription fees” and promise access to movies but will actually just steal your bank information.

The experts warn that victims then become vulnerable to unauthorized transactions.

Movies being offered by scammers include Everything Everywhere All at Once and Avatar 2.

If an offer to stream a movie seems too good to be true it probably is.

Olga Svistunova, a security expert at Kaspersky, said: “The Oscars 2023 is lucrative for cybercriminals who intensify their malicious activity every year.

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“It’s crucial to be extra cautious during this event and double-check the authenticity of any website offering free streaming of movies.

“Don’t fall for fake websites or giveaway scams that trick users into giving away their personal information.

“Always use reputable streaming services and double-check website authenticity.”

Kaspersky advises checking the authenticity of websites before you enter any personal data.

You should also be wary of sites that promise early viewings of movies before they’re released.

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