A new blow for Android: security researchers from Kaspersky discovered that two applications on the Google Play Store, with a total of more than 11 million downloads, were infected with a particularly vicious malware called “Necro Trojan”.
Affected photo and browser applications
Both applications are relevant Fire cameraphoto editing and beautification tool downloaded over 10 million timesetc Browser Maxa more private web browser. According to analyzes of Kasperskymalicious versions of Fire camera it started from 6.3.2.148, and for Browser Max This is 1.2.0.
The Necro malware have already made headlines in 2019 by introducing the application CamScannerwhich then had more than 100 million users. Since then, it has apparently been working despite Google’s vigilance.
Malware with many harmful capabilities
According to the researchers, Necro Trojan game is able to:
- Show intrusive ads, including on top of other apps
- Edit visited URLs
- Download and execute files without the user’s knowledge
To communicate with hacker servers without being detected, the malware uses an advanced technique of steganography : controls are hidden in images by playing on pixel values.
Millions of Android devices hit worldwide
The data is at Kaspersky show that the malware is particularly distributed in certain countries:
| Will pay | Infectious tools |
| Russia | +++ |
| Brazil | +++ |
| Vietnam | ++ |
| Ecuador | ++ |
| Mexico | ++ |
Overall, these are possible 11 million Android devices were exposed to the malware through these two vulnerable applications, before Google responded.
Google responds and removes the affected apps
Requested by PCMagGoogle said it removed the malicious versions of Fire camera etc Browser Max from the Play Store before the report was published Kaspersky. The company specifies that their software Protect Google Playenabled by default on Android devices, they can “disable or remove harmful apps” once reported.
But the damage is done and again showing limits application filter powered by Google. Despite progress, sophisticated malware still regularly slips through the cracks, putting millions of users’ data at risk.
So there is still a need to be careful when downloading applications, including on the Play Store official It is advisable to check reviews, requested licenses and update your mobile phone. Installing a security solution can also help detect threats before it’s too late.
My name is Michael. I am a journalist for this magazine where I research and break down current events to provide you with articles that allow you to have a more nuanced and balanced understanding of global affairs. Passionate about creating bridges between stories and people, I joined this site to practice interactive journalism, where each article is an open conversation with the reader.
