NQ Mobile Alerts Android Users About UpdtBot Malware

Malware, virus attacks and other malicious software is no longer restricted to computers. With the increase of smartphone users, the latest targets by cyber criminals are mobile platforms like iOS and Android. Both North Carolina State University and the chief scientist for NQ Mobile recently alerted Android users about a malware strain.

The new malware in question is called UpdtBot, and it is known to masquerade itself as a system upgrade. Once it gets downloaded on an Android device, it then spreads via SMS messages that contain a link to the malicious application file. The malware then proceeds to install itself onto the device and registers a remote Command and Control (C&C) server. Then it commands the afflicted device to send text messages, make phone calls and download and install apps.

The UpdtBot malware fools Android users by claiming their system is at risk, and gives a URL link directing the user to a system upgrade, which in turn links to a malicious app.

More than 160,000 Android users have been have been infected, according to NQ Mobile, and the number is increasing constantly. While NQ Mobile has no solid proof or statistics on how the malware strain is being used by the cybercriminals, they do believe it has been designed to call premium-rate numbers and generate high mobile bills.

NQ Mobile also lists steps that should be followed by all smartphone users, despite their mobile operating system. These guidelines are listed below:

• Only download applications from trusted sources, reputable application stores and markets, and check reviews, ratings and developer information before doing so.
• Before you install an app, carefully review “permissions” and make sure you’re comfortable with the data they’ll be accessing.
• Watch for unusual or suspicious behavior on your mobile devices, such as unauthorized charges to your phone bill, text messages from unknown sources and decreased battery life.
• Download up-to-date mobile security software on your mobile device, such as NQ Mobile Security, which scans apps for malware and locates a lost or stolen device. All NQ Mobile Security users are automatically protected from this malware and all other mobile threats.