Players beware - Squid Game malware is here

Date:
Wed, 20 Oct 2021 11:57:41 +0000

Description:
Another malware author has managed to tiptoe past Play Store checks that should have prevented the app from ever being listed.

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Threat actors have capitalized on the popularity of Netflixs Squid Game to push a malware -laden phone wallpaper app based on the show onto the Google Play Store .

Cybersecurity experts brought the app to the attention of Google, who have now booted it off the platform, but not before it had clocked over 5000 downloads.

Forbes reports that an analysis by ESET s Android malware researcher Lukas Stefanko revealed that the rogue app was used to disguise the Joker malware . TechRadar needs you!

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Based on Jokers typical ploys, anyone who would have downloaded the malware-laden app wouldve been targeted by ad frauds or been signed up to costly SMS services without their knowledge or consent. Popular play

Stefano tweeted that the Play Store listed over 200 Squid Game-related apps. However he fathomed that since the series doesnt have an official app of its own, it presents a great opportunity for app developers to capitalize on the craze to make money from in-app ads.

Speaking to Forbes however he suggests that malware authors have tried to piggyback on the popularity of a franchise to distribute malware, and that it would make sense if someone tried something similar with Squid Game as well.

I would be careful when downloading any unofficial apps. Still, if I was
going to install any of them, I would advise users to read reviews from
others that might suggest what the app is about, cautions Stefano.

While Google has unlisted the app from the Play Store, this isnt the first time malware authors have managed to sneak past Googles automated processes that are designed to flag suspicious apps. Protect your devices with these best antivirus software

Via Forbes



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Link to news story: https://www.techradar.com/news/players-beware-squid-game-malware-is-here/


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