Android users should be aware of malware masked as porn apps

As malware targeting Android apps increases, Android users should be extremely careful and download applications only for the official Google Play app store. However, there are some apps that are difficult or even impossible to get officially. A good example would be porn applications, which are barred from Google Play. As a result, users have to seek out third-party sites that are populated by scammers and cybercriminals. 

According to the recently published report by the Russian-based security firm Kaspersky, one-fourth of the 4.9 million Android users, watching porn on their smartphones or tablets have faced malware. So, users are advised to avoid watching porn on their Android devices or they will be vulnerable to hacking and ransomware.^[1]

One of the hacking groups behind malware-infected porn apps is known to steal money from users using fake porn apps. The report noted that the hackers managed to steal $892,000 from Android users

Usually, hacking groups use porn ransomware and lure potential victims to click on malicious URLs or websites and victims are not even aware of an infection. 

Kaspersky announced that 23 different types of malware were detected targeting Android smartphones. Porn apps were identified as a primary tool distributing that malware. Some of those infected applications contained Trojans and ransomware were designed to hack into victims' online bank accounts or create fake subscriptions.

In addition, financial damage is not the only threat for those Android users that watch porn on their devices. Many sites were automatically launched and ads were clicked without victims knowledge, due to the hack, so hackers can make more money because of those clicking ads. As a result, the victim’s device’s battery has drained and the malware utilized a large chunk of the user’s data.^[2]

What is more, the Trojans and ransomware can also change the infected device’s PIN code to random. As a result, users try to uninstall the malware and get rid of the infection they are not able to even unlock their phone. 

Applications that include porn content have never been available on Google Play app store, but many porn apps are available on porn websites in the form of .apk file. In addition, more than 700,000 apps were removed from Google Play app store because of this violate policy. 

How to protect your Android device?

So, if you use Android device, be aware of Android vulnerability to hacking and ransomware and be careful while watching porn on Android smartphone or tablet! 

The best advice would be to avoid any porn apps. In addition, always keep an eye on what permissions a newly downloaded app request and install a reliable mobile security and antivirus on your Android device.