Cybersecurity experts have been emphasizing for years to download from unknown sources. Their code can be modified in such a way that a seemingly innocent program whose purpose is to perform a simple task turns into a spy. This type of situation in extreme cases can also happen when we install an application from a trusted source. And for such situations, experts have advice: let’s not choose solutions that are little known. And let’s pay attention to what permissions programs have.
A file manager that works like a spy. It’s hard to remove
This is the case with two tools: File Recovery and Data Recovery (com.spot.music.filedate) and File Manager (com.file.box.master.gkd). Both are tools of the Chinese developer. As experts from the Pradeo company warn, inside the applications, which have been downloaded a total of 1.5 million times, there is a suspicious code sewn into it.
Applications inform the user that they will display ads, which is not surprising in the world of free solutions. In fact, the tools collect our photos and videos. Along with location data, SIM card and other data, they send everything to a server in China.
Something that is supposed to manage files and clean our system, in fact, also acts as a surveillance tool. Applications run on their own after the device is turned on. They work in the background. And when we try to uninstall them, it may turn out that the only thing that happened was the icon that disappeared from the home screen. The developer used the app’s permissions to seemingly comply with our request.
Spyware can be dangerous. It’s not just about data, it’s about money
Both applications fall into the “spyware” category. It is malware that has the ability to spy on the user and steal confidential information. It is dangerous not only because of the violation of privacy, but also because of the possibility of extorting money.
Spyware can take control of your phone, monitor user activity, record passwords, bank details and other sensitive information. It can also perform unauthorized financial transactions or send premium SMS which leads to user losing money. That’s why it’s important to protect your phone from spyware by regularly updating your software, installing trusted apps, and avoiding suspicious links and attachments.
Source: Gazeta
Mabel is a talented author and journalist with a passion for all things technology. As an experienced writer for the 247 News Agency, she has established a reputation for her in-depth reporting and expert analysis on the latest developments in the tech industry.
