Keeping yourself safe from all kinds of computer viruses and malware is very hard. Especially if you don’t have internet smarts. Knowing which links to click and which links to ignore, recognizing that a message is a spam just by understanding its overall tone. Clicking on those weird ads that tell you someone is just 2 km away from you (wink). All of this can be avoided if you know about them. The term ignorance is bliss will put you in hot waters while browsing the internet.
A newly discovered malware is making rounds in android smartphones right now. This malicious software pretends to be a system update for your phone. However, it is actually a spyware application that will completely steal all your personal data. This may include your photos, messages, contacts, your passwords, and even your bank information.
The spyware, as the name suggests, is able to track your movements and your online search history (oh no). The application is simply called System Update. It was discovered by a mobile security firm called Zimperium. They classified this app as a RAT or a Remote Access Trojan. Remote access means that this app allows the hacker to access your device from a remote location.
The CEO of Zimperium said in a statement that “It’s easily the most sophisticated [RAT] we’ve seen”, and “I think a lot of time and effort was spent on creating this app. We believe that there are other apps out there like this, and we are trying our very best to find them as soon as possible”.
The application is even able to access your WhatsApp messages, pictures, and videos. It can also monitor your GPS location, hijack your phone’s camera to take pictures, and turn on your microphone to record audio. Better check your parent’s phone folks.
This application is not offered through the Google store but those using third-party stores should be beware of it. Being Internet smart is the only way you can save yourself from applications like these.
