New Android Malware 'HighJack Rat' attacks mobile banking users

[jonsie]

Yet another one to watch out for!

I'm not sure just how serious this is but just a headsup for everyone.

It's important that you check app permissions when downloading them from any source but preferably only download from Google Playstore. Even then, double check.

Source : http://thehackernews.com/2014/07/new-android-malware-hijackrat-attacks.html

"Cybercriminals have rolled out a new malicious Android application that wraps different varieties of banking fraud trick into a single piece of advanced mobile malware.

GOOGLE SERVICE FRAMEWORK - APPLICATION OR MALWARE?

Security researchers at the security firm FireEye have came across a malicious Android application that binds together the latest and older hijacking techniques. The malicious Android app combines private data theft, banking credential theft and spoofing, and remote access into a single unit, where traditional malware has had only one such capability included in it.

Researchers dubbed the malware as HijackRAT, a banking trojan that comes loaded with a malicious Android application which disguises itself as “Google Service Framework,” first and the most advanced Android malware sample of its kind ever discovered, combining all the three malicious activities together."

[Cleoriff]

I have read the article as provided by @jonsie  and it is worrying that it states anti-virus software would not be effective. Problem is, it doesn't tell us what would? It says this Highjack Rat attempts to disable all security systems you may have in place?

"IS MOBILE ANTIVIRUS NEEDED? GOOGLE SAYS “NO”

Despite strict warnings from security companies, Google’s head of Android security says the majority of Android device users do not need to install any anti-virus solution and other security applications to protect their devices.

 Google’s security researchers say those who used antivirus or security app on their phone would probably never actually receive protection from it, and because every Android app goes through the Google automated system that checked for every issue, and verified those apps that didn’t contain any malware or malicious activities, before they were made available on the app store.

But, the question here is that if every Android app goes through Google Automated System, then why Google Play Store is surrounded by so many malicious apps? "

[Anonymous]

@perksie where ya been?

[perksie]

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@Anonymous wrote:
@perksie where ya been?

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 I'm usually around somewhere just not on here too often for various reasons.

Thank you for asking though!

[Cleoriff]

Lovely to see you back @perksie  I have missed the banter