Hackers are holding Android users’ private information to ransom
Hackers threaten to send Android users’ private photos and messages to all their friends and family. Thousands of Android users are being held to ransom by a new strain of malware, LeakerLocker. The so-called ransomware is being used by hackers to extort victims.
Secondly, this information could potentially include: photos, text messages, website histories, Facebook chats, GPS locations and email correspondence. Essentially anything stored on the victim’s phone.
The LeakerLocker ransomware was detected in two apps on Google’s official Play Store. One called “Wallpapers Blur HD” and another called “Booster & Cleaner Pro”. Anyone who downloads one of these apps receives a pop-up message. Stating that the data from their smartphone had been stolen and uploaded to a secure server in the cloud.
Despite the hacker’ threats, McAfee warns against paying the ransom. There is no guarantee that the information will be released. Agreeing to the hackers’ demands also contributes to the spread of this type of cyber attack.
Moreover, security researchers Fernando Ruiz and ZePeng Chen said that, although hackers are able to access some personal data on compromised phones, their claims are overblown.
Google has been made aware of the malicious apps and has launched an investigation. Both apps have now been removed from the Google Play store.
