Harly malware is the new type of infectious software affecting smartphone apps, even the ones you find on Google Play, see how to protect yourself.
According to a Tom’s Guide article, the malware has been found loaded on more than 190 Android apps. What is more, these apps look harmless and even useful, which explains why they have been downloaded more than 4.8 million times by unsuspecting users.
The Harly malware is hidden in the code of apps and when downloaded, they pose a threat to smartphone functionalities and even your bank account.
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A security article on Kaspersky’s blog revealed that the malware collects users info and use these to signup for to subscription sites, without the user knowing.
“Once installed, Harly collects information about a user’s device along with details about the mobile network they’re using. The phone then switches from Wi-Fi to a mobile network and the malware contacts the C&C server to put together a list of subscriptions to sign up for.
“From here, Harly opens the subscription sites in an invisible window, enters a victim’s phone number, presses the required button and even enters any confirmation codes sent via text. The end result is that the victim is signed up for a subscription service without realizing it.” – Tom’s Guide says.
Some of the apps flagged to contain the Harly malware are: Pony Camera, Live Wallpaper&Themes Launcher, Action Launcher & Wallpapers, Color Call, Good Launcher, Mondy Widgets, Funcalls-Voice Changer, Eve Launcher, Newlook Launcher, and Pixel Screen Wallpaper.
There could be more, so, what else can you do? You can turn on Google Play Protect to automatically scan all your apps for malware. You can also install an antivirus app for your smartphone.
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