2024-08-21 06:12:35
This code, also called a remote access trojan (RAT), allows cybercriminals to take complete control of victims’ devices, accessing their contactsfiles, call logs, text messages, and even chats from popular apps like WhatsApp and Signal.
Besides, These apps have the ability to take photos of victims and record audio from your surroundings without your knowledge.
What is more worrying is that some of these apps disguise themselves as legitimate messaging platforms, making them difficult for users to detect.
Additionally, they use deceptive tactics to lure people in. One of them is a tactic known as “honey-trap” or “love-trap,” which is used to persuade victims to download the malicious apps. Using fake social media profiles, criminals show romantic interest in victims and convince them to install the apps under the promise of an intimate connection.
These apps, which have been detected on Google Play, have affected users mainly in countries such as Pakistan and India. Although some of them have been removed from the Android store after being discovered, the risk remains for those who still have them installed on their devices.
The list of apps involved is as follows:
– Rafaqat
– Privee Talk
– MeetMe
– Let’s Chat
– Quick Chat
– Chit Chat
– YohooTalk
– TikTalk
– Hello Chat
– Nest
– GlowChat
– Wave Chat
The goal of cybercriminals is to attack users without them noticing, and to do so they manage to bypass Google’s security filters and present an apparently reliable app. For this reason, users have no way to defend themselves at first and are left exposed to ignorance.
However, throughout the process of downloading and installing applications on your cell phone, it is important to keep in mind certain recommendations to avoid being a victim of espionage and having your data fall into the wrong hands. Here are some tips:
– Download apps only from trusted sources: It is crucial to only get apps from trusted and official sources, such as Google’s Play Store. Avoid installing apps from third-party stores or unverified websites, as they may contain malware.
– Research apps before downloading them: Before installing an app, you should look up information about the developer and read reviews from other users. If you find negative or suspicious comments, it is best to avoid that app.
– Review the required permissions: When installing an app, you should pay attention to the permissions it requests. If an app requests access to features that are not relevant to its primary function, such as the camera or microphone for a simple messaging app, that is a red flag.
– Keep your software up to date: Make sure to keep your Android device and all apps updated with the latest versions and security patches. Updates often include fixes for known vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malware.
– Be suspicious of unknown messages and requests: Be alert to messages or requests from unknown people, especially those who try to move the conversation to unrecognized or suspicious messaging apps.