RELATED: If You Have an Android, You’ll Be Barred From Doing This Starting Today. In a blog post from April 1, cyber security research group Lab52 issued a warning that it had discovered a malicious piece of software capable of infecting Android smartphones. The program, known as “Process Manager,” can sneakily be downloaded onto devices and then used to send personal information to hackers. According to Lab52, users usually download the app accidentally after clicking on a link they’ve received through a text message or email on their device. From there, the malware will display a phony warning message that grants it access to the phone’s camera and microphone and allows it to read text messages, emails, call logs, contact information, and the device’s exact location. The app will then continue to run in the background to gather information that can be sent back to hackers and used to exploit or blackmail victims, The U.S. Sun reports.ae0fcc31ae342fd3a1346ebb1f342fcb
RELATED: For more up-to-date information, sign up for our daily newsletter. In its blog post, Lab52 says that the malware appears similar to the type of technology developed by Russian hackers known as Turla. In the past, the cybercriminal group with ties to the Russian government have used the software to spy on Europeans and Americans, The Sun reports. However, the group says it cannot come up with conclusive evidence that the notorious group is behind the latest malware attacks. “Attribution to Turla does not seem possible given its threat capabilities,” they wrote. Of course, keeping your phone safe always begins with avoiding any suspicious links that may come your way through email or text. But any users who have inadvertently downloaded the app may not even notice it at first. The app hides in plain sight by using a cog icon that appears similar to the general settings icon used as a default in most devices, The Sun reports. To ensure your phone is free of spyware, experts recommend double-checking which apps have permission to access your device’s camera, microphone, and messages. You can do this by tapping on Settings and then searching for “Apps” or “Apps and Notifications” before clicking on “Permissions.” If any programs you don’t recognize have access to your device, revoke them immediately. RELATED: Apple Just Issued This Major Warning for All iPhone and iPad Users.
