A new version of some previously discovered malware has been found and it has the potential to do even more damage to Android devices than its predecessor. It’s called Loki and can wreak havoc in several ways. It makes its way onto the devices through third-party apps downloaded from locations other than the official app store for Android.
Because third-party applications don’t go through the same level of scrutiny as those in the Google Play, Apple Store, or Amazon Appstore (as well as other official app stores), they are at more risk of containing malware. While it isn’t guaranteed that something nasty won’t make it onto your smartphone or tablet from those official stores, it is still highly advisable to use them and avoid sideloading. The risk of officially sanctioned apps containing malware still remains considerably lower. In addition, the maintainers of the app stores are usually very efficient at getting rid of malware-laden apps as soon as they find out about them.
This version of Loki not only mimics the capabilities of the original Loki malware by constantly displaying unwanted adwar, it can also do many much more damaging things including:
- Steal information off the device
- Interfere with the communications to and from the device
- Install ransomware
- Make financial transactions without the user’s knowledge
- And yes, still show those annoying ads for a longer period of time.
As always, make sure all devices are kept updated with the latest version of the operating system and that anti-malware and anti-virus software is installed and kept updated at all times.
For banks and credit unions
Share this article with your members
Copy a ready-made summary and link for your newsletter, website or social posts.
