A worrying new cyber bug has been uncovered that is locking users out of their phones and demanding a ransom to stop files being deleted for good.
Android warning(Image: GETTY)
Android users are being warned to stay vigilant and watch out for a concerning new cyberattack. The latest threat is one of the most worrying in a while, as, once infected, phones suddenly become locked, and users are told to pay a ransom or face having files permanently destroyed.
The threat, which has been dubbed DroidLock, was spotted by the security team at Zimperium and appears to be affecting Android users in parts of Europe.
It’s currently being distributed through malicious websites that then promote fake applications which impersonate real software. As soon as it’s installed, DroidLock has the capability to take complete control of phones and watch what codes are being punched in to unlock the screen.
Once that data is in the hands of hackers, they can then change the code and lock the user out. Some of those targeted have then been sent a screen overlay that says they must pay a ransom or have all their files deleted. A countdown timer also appears, showing just how long is left to comply.
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“The ZLabs research team has identified a new threat campaign targeting Android users,” Zimperium explained.
“DroidLock, a malware more accurately classified as ransomware, propagates via phishing websites. It has the ability to lock device screens with a ransomware-like overlay and illegally acquire app lock credentials, leading to a total takeover of the compromised device.
“It employs deceptive system update screens to trick victims and can stream and remotely control devices via VNC. The malware also exploits device administrator privileges to lock or erase data, capture the victim’s image with the front camera, and silence the device.”
DroidLock hasn’t reached the UK yet, but that doesn’t mean Android users should let their guard down. To stay safe, it’s vital that all Android users only install applications from official marketplaces such as Google’s Play Store.
Anyone being urged to sideload software from websites should double-check the developer’s identity and never download anything if it doesn’t seem legitimate.
Stay alert and be careful before installing anything on your Android phone.
