New Android malware infecting thousands of devices stealing

New Android malware infecting thousands of devices stealing personal data

Spammers behind a new type of Android malware may have already stolen up to 450,000 thousand pieces of personal information from infected devices worldwide in just two weeks.

Symantec’s Security Response team has published an analysis of the new malware – which targets Android users for personal information – Android.Exprespam.

While the malware was discovered at the beginning of January and has only been around for a couple of weeks, analysis shows the scammers seem to be having a lot of success with the malware already.

The data obtained indicates that the fake market called Android Express’s Play has drawn more than 3,000 visits in a period of a week from January 13 to January 20, resulting in potential theft between 75,000 and 450,000 pieces of personal information.

Android users should avoid using links in emails from unknown sources, only download apps from well-known and trusted app vendors and install a security app, such as as Norton Mobile Security or Symantec Mobile Security, on the device.

For general smartphone and tablet safety tips, please visit our Mobile Security website

Further information on the malware analysis can be found on Symantec’s Security Response blog and the graphic below [see link].

ENDS

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