Skygofree: Kaspersky Lab Discovers the Most Sophisticated Android Malware Ever

Malware and Android: Name a more iconic duo.

In all seriousness though, the latest study published by Kaspersky Lab is quite scary.  Security researchers from the firm have discovered a new Android malware which they call the most sophisticated spyware ever created. Codenamed Skygofree, it is capable of location-based audio recording and several other hacks that haven't been observed in previous Android malware.

The researchers believe Skygofree is offensive security production developed by an Italian Information technology visitor and has been in development since late 2014. The malware features 48 different modules, and relies on five unique exploits to gain root access on the infected device. It is capable of taking pictures, capturing video, copying call records, text messages including WhatsApp and other IM apps, geolocation information, calendar events, and business-related information which has been stored in the device'due south internal storage.

Additionally, Skygofree as well has the ability to automatically record conversations when the infected device enters a location specified by the attacker.

Another unique feature found in the malware is its ability to access WhatsApp messages past exploiting the Android Accessibility Service. The spyware can too connect infected devices to WiFi networks controlled by attackers.

More than avant-garde features found in the spyware include a opposite trounce that allows the aggressor to proceeds remote access of infected devices. A diverseness of Windows components tin can also be found in the malware that provide a opposite beat, a keylogger, and a way to tape Skype conversations, perchance for infecting machines which compromised devices are connected to.

The report adds:

"The Skygofree Android implant is one of the about powerful spyware tools that we have e'er seen for this platform…Every bit a result of the long-term development process, in that location are multiple, infrequent capabilities."

The malware is spread through web landing pages that mimic websites of pop network service providers like Vodafone. The domains used to spread the malware have been registered since 2015, with the latest domain added early last year.

Data discovered by Kaspersky Lab suggests that several individuals in Italy take been infected, with no instances found anywhere else in the world. However, the group advises users to go along their software upwards-to-date and limit their visits to fishy sites and domains.

Source: https://beebom.com/kaspersky-lab-skygofree-most-sophisticated-android-malware/

Posted by: carvajalyoughtley.blogspot.com

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