If you’re an Android user then you need to pay attention to this.
There’s yet another piece of malware floating around which is targeting Android users. Originally flagged by security company Dr. Web as Android.BankBot.211.origin, the malware attempts to get financial data from your phone. It also has capabilities which make it possible to target other information including your contact lists and text messages.
The malware spreads by disguising itself by using the names of popular programs like Adobe Flash Player. It’s important to note though that BankBot hasn’t made it to the Google Play Store. So, if you’re only downloading apps from the Play Store then you’ll be safe, but if you download APKs from unknown sources, you stand a chance of downloading this malicious software.
Dr. Web says that the malware uses Android’s Accessibility Service to take over your phone. It displays a request prompt that allows it to add itself to the device administrator list and become the default message manager.
Once it’s taken over your phone, BankBot can send an SMS to any number, extract your text messages and then send them to the hacker. It can also open links, steal data like phone call info, contact lists, installed apps, and even take screenshots of your passwords when you start typing them on websites.
