Google’s Android OS is a massive platform for mobile apps. The search giant has created a dedicated space from where you can download numerous apps for different tasks called the Play Store. Despite several security checks, malware and viruses often make their way to the Google Play Store disguised as authentic apps. Joker Malware has been one of the most notorious malware that has been infecting Android devices for a long. But now another such dangerous malware called Escobar is targeting Android users. Below are the details:
Escobar Malware: What Is It?
The latest Android malware targeting users across 18 different countries has been reported by BleepingComputers. As per the report, Escobar isn’t entirely new spyware, rather it’s an older trojan virus with a new name. This is primarily a banking trojan virus that targets Android users and steals their confidential details.
The Escobar trojan virus was earlier infecting Android devices as Aberebot malware. However, along with the new name, the malware is also said to have grown stronger. The advanced Escobar malware now collects crucial user information including SMS, call logs, notifications, and Google Authentication codes.
This malware getting access to the Google Authentication codes is definitely a concerning situation for the users as it allows them to get a hold of the users’ private details. Notably, the aforementioned user details that is collected by the banking trojan are uploaded to a C2 server. Currently, the exact source or the country of origin of the Escobar malware remains unspecified.
The only available information is that this new Google malware has targeted users in 18 countries by far. As many as 190 different financial institutions have been impacted by the latest malware.
How Can You Stay Protected?
Google does keep a constant check on such viruses and malware disguised as real apps. The company also takes strict measures to keep the Play Store protected and also timely removes these threats from its platform. But if you want to stay protected from such apps, one of the best ways is to download authentic antivirus applications on your respective Android devices.
Also, try not to download any random third-party app. If in case you wish to try a new app, make sure you have checked its star ratings and also user reviews. Only go ahead with the installation once you are sure the app isn’t fake or is offering a good user experience.
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