Cybercrime prevention company ThreatMetrix has identified some common methods fraudsters use to target your mobile devices.
The company said that mobile devices offer great functionality, but are different from PCs and require adequate protection in order to prevent people falling victim to malware. Recent reports state that Android malware has risen by 614% in a year.
Common identified attack methods
- App Replacement – Criminals replace legitimate apps with modified versions capable of recording data and tracking user activity to steal users’ account information for personal profit.
- API Reverse Engineering – When a consumer opens a new account on their mobile device, hackers can backtrack through the app to obtain and compromise the user’s login information.
- Malware on Premium Services – SMS messages on premium services are often used to spread malware through spam.
Use legitimate sources
You should only download apps from legitimate sources and evaluate how much information you share with apps to avoid falling victim. For example, if an app is requesting the ability to send text messages or block calls, it’s likely to be malicious and should not be downloaded.
If believe that you have malware on your Android mobile or tablet, Sophos Mobile Security have a free application that automatically scans apps as you install them. It can also scan previously installed applications for viruses too.
For further information please visit the ThreatMetrix website.
Please note that Action Fraud is not responsible for the content of external websites.
To report a fraud and receive a police crime reference number, call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or use our online fraud reporting tool.
Related links
Mobile malware on the rise
New Android Trojan discovered in Google Play
