Android Users Targeted With Malware In App Found In The Google Play Store

Android users are targets again with a new piece of malware that can really intrude upon the users’ lives. It was found in the official Google Play Store and users who downloaded an app called “Sex Game” are the ones (but not the only ones) who need to be really worried. This app was available in the Google Play Store in 2016, so sadly, those who did download it have been spied upon for quite some time.

The malware is called Triout and was discovered by some cybersecurity folks at Bitdefender. Triout can gather records of every call, steal SMS/text logs, photos and videos on the device, and even capture GPS coordinates. Once these things are retrieved, they are sent to the command-and-control server controlled by the attacker(s).

While all of this is bad enough, some experts believe this is merely a precursor to something more nefarious such as very targeted espionage and/or blackmail campaigns.

Of course, it’s unlikely many of you actually downloaded this particular app. However, it demonstrates that malware-ridden apps can even make it into the official app stores. While this is the case, it is still much better to get your apps that way than by sideloading, or getting them from third-party sites.

Remember to always do some research before downloading any app too. Check the ratings and if there aren’t many and/or those are all glowing, it may be an indication of a fake or malicious app. Consider waiting until more reviews come in or just skipping that one. The one thing that you can usually count on with reviews is that if something has malware in it, the reviewers will say so.

This particular app has since been removed from the Google Play Store, but it’s not likely the only one there. Use caution when downloading anything onto your mobile devices and make sure they have updated anti-virus software on them too.