- Researchers have discovered that millions of Android smartphones contain malware as soon as they leave the factory
- This malware allows hackers to take control of devices and use them to steal data or subscribe to paid services
- It is advised to check the list of installed apps and remove the suspicious ones
Android is the most popular mobile operating system in the world, but also the most exposed to security threats. If Google does its best to protect users and offer them regular updates, it is not immune to flaws or negligence.
This is revealed a study by cybersecurity researcherswho discovered that millions of Android smartphones come with pre-installed malware.
This malware is not the work of Google, but of certain manufacturers who delegate the production of firmware to unscrupulous suppliers. The latter take advantage of this opportunity to inject malicious codes into the devices, without the users realizing it.
These codes then allow hackers to take control of smartphones remotely and use them to steal personal information, messages, online accounts or even to subscribe to premium services without the consent of the victims.
Nearly 9 million smartphones affected
According to the study, there are more than 80 types of malicious plugins which can infect Android smartphones as soon as they leave the factory. These plugins act as proxies that rent devices to third parties for a few minutes while they compromise them. The researchers believe that the number of infected devices worldwide is around 8.9 millionmainly in Southeast Asia and Eastern Europe.
Among the incriminated applications, we find in particular Vlog Star Video Editor, Creative 3D Launcher, Funny Camera, Wow Beauty Camera, Gif Emoji Keyboard, Razer Keyboard & Theme, Freeglow Camera et Coco Camera. These apps have been downloaded over 3 million times on the Google Play Store, before being withdrawn following the discovery of the researchers. It is therefore recommended to check the list of applications installed on your smartphone and delete suspicious ones.
To avoid this kind of mishap, it is also important to be careful when downloading a new application. Read user reviews carefully, check the average rating and reputation of the developer.
Also, be wary of apps that ask for too many permissions or display pop-up ads. Finally, it is imperative to keep your smartphone up to date, as these security flaws are often corrected in a very short time.
