Beware Android users, this malware can steal money via bank apps and reset the phone
Around 85 percent of smartphones worldwide run on Android OS, and since it’s an open-source-based system, it allows users to install applications from third parties. However, this makes the phones vulnerable to malware and cybercrime. One such malware that is affecting Android phones is BRATA (Brazilian Remote Access Tool, Android), which was originally identified in 2019 but has surfaced again with a new version that can steal money from bank apps and wipe out data from Android devices. Researchers have warned users of the new version and how it is capable of performing a factory reset on targeted devices without the victim’s permission.
Cleafy, an Italian fraud management and IT security research firm, had stated that the malware aims to steal money from the victim’s bank account by accessing the bank apps installed on the device. If successful, it then performs the factory data reset in a move to divert the victim’s attention. The new version can even track GPS and keylogging, which is an extreme breach of privacy.
BRATA is initially a banking trojan that can remotely access users’ Android devices and steal money via e-banking apps. But the version can also factory reset Android smartphones following malicious activities. The new version was discovered in November 2021 and the targeted regions include Poland, Italy, Latin America, and the United Kingdom.
How to secure your phone from BRATA malware
If you’re an Android user, we advise you against downloading apps from third-party app stores. After downloading apps, also keep a check on the permissions it seeks. Using a recommended anti-malware application on the phone is an added bonus. This will help keep the device updated and regularly scanned for potential threats.
The post Beware Android users, this malware can steal money via bank apps and reset the phone first appeared on 91mobiles.com.
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