wraggster
October 17th, 2012, 01:03
The FBI’s Crime Complaint Center (IC3) is warning Android phone users of malware that targets Google’s mobile operating system.
The IC3 said that the latest versions of the malware are ‘Loozfon’ and ‘FinFisher’.
Different variants of Loozfon are used by criminals to steal information.
“One version is a work-at-home opportunity that promises a profitable payday just for sending out email,” explains IC3. “A link within these advertisements leads to a website that is designed to push Loozfon on the user's device. The malicious application steals contact details from the user’s address book and the infected device's phone number.”
FinFisher is a type of spyware which is capable of taking over components of a mobile device.
“When installed the mobile device can be remotely controlled and monitored no matter where the target is located. FinFisher can be easily transmitted to a Smartphone when the user visits a specific web link or opens a text message masquerading as a system update,” said IC3.
IC3 has provided a list of safety tips to help protect your smartphone. These include using encryption, looking at reviews of developers before downloading their apps, and making sure you do not connect your device to unknown wireless networks.
http://www.pcr-online.biz/news/read/fbi-issues-warning-about-malware-targeting-android-users/029393
The IC3 said that the latest versions of the malware are ‘Loozfon’ and ‘FinFisher’.
Different variants of Loozfon are used by criminals to steal information.
“One version is a work-at-home opportunity that promises a profitable payday just for sending out email,” explains IC3. “A link within these advertisements leads to a website that is designed to push Loozfon on the user's device. The malicious application steals contact details from the user’s address book and the infected device's phone number.”
FinFisher is a type of spyware which is capable of taking over components of a mobile device.
“When installed the mobile device can be remotely controlled and monitored no matter where the target is located. FinFisher can be easily transmitted to a Smartphone when the user visits a specific web link or opens a text message masquerading as a system update,” said IC3.
IC3 has provided a list of safety tips to help protect your smartphone. These include using encryption, looking at reviews of developers before downloading their apps, and making sure you do not connect your device to unknown wireless networks.
http://www.pcr-online.biz/news/read/fbi-issues-warning-about-malware-targeting-android-users/029393