Beware of a new Android threat targeting your photos and texts without even opening them
Another day, another malware threat is trying to get your data. Well, brace yourself, because there’s a virus that’s been around for a while that’s out there that’s gotten even worse. It’s called XLoader, and it’s after your photos and texts on your Android device. Yes, you heard that right. Your precious memories and messages are in danger of being snatched by this malicious software.
What is malware?
Malware is technically any software that’s designed to disrupt the system of its intended target. With malware, the person or entity behind the attack can gain access to your data, leak sensitive information, block you out, and take control of other aspects of your privacy and security.
MORE: TIPS TO FOLLOW FROM ONE INCREDIBLY COSTLY CONVERSATION WITH CYBERCROOKS
What is the XLoader malware strain?
According to McAfee, the XLoader malware — also known as MoqHao — has been around since 2015, targeting Android users in the U.S., Europe, and Asia. Once it’s on your device (which it’s gotten much better at doing), it’s able to run in the background, taking your sensitive data, whether it be photos, text messages, contact lists, hardware details, and more.
MORE: BEWARE OF NEW ANDROID MALWARE HIDING IN POPULAR APPS
How does XLoader get onto your device?
One of the reasons XLoader is such a major threat is because unlike its previous strains and other malware, it can get on your device that much easier than before. Generally, malware gets onto your device via a phishing scam. However, because people are more skeptical about opening or clicking on suspicious files or links — and because there are integrated apps that help warn you of these files — it’s more difficult for these traditional phishing scams to be effective, but XLoader has gotten clever.
First, you receive a text from an unknown sender
Like ordinary malware, XLoader often spreads through malicious links sent via text messages. This is a unique type of phishing scam known as “smishing.” But, scammers are aware that most people don’t click on texts from people they don’t know. So, another way they attempt to be successful at this is by first gaining access to a phone…
