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Showing posts with label Fake Apps. Show all posts
Fake Apps
Android Android Banking Trojan Android Trojans Banking Trojan Credential Theft Cyber Attacks Fake Apps

Datzbro Android Banking Trojan Targets Seniors With Device-Takeover Attacks

 

Researchers have uncovered a previously undocumented Android banking trojan, dubbed Datzbro, that is being used in device-takeover campaigns aimed squarely at older adults. ThreatFabric, a Dutch mobile security firm, first tied the activity to a social-engineering network in August 2025 after reports emerged of Facebook groups in Australia advertising “active senior trips” that were in fact recruitment channels for the scam. The operation has been observed in multiple countries, including Singapore, Malaysia, Canada, South Africa and the U.K., and relies on community-focused messaging to build trust before delivering malware. 

The attackers create convincing Facebook groups and AI-generated posts promoting local events for seniors. When a target shows interest, operators move the conversation to Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp and push a link to download a so-called community app—usually an APK hosted on a fraudulent domain. Those sites promise event registration and networking features but deliver an installer that either installs Datzbro directly or drops a secondary loader built with an APK-binding service called Zombinder, which helps bypass protections introduced in Android 13 and later. Some evidence suggests the fraudsters are preparing iOS TestFlight lures as well, indicating cross-platform ambitions. 

Analysts have cataloged multiple malicious app package names used to distribute the trojan, from innocuous-sounding “Senior Group” and “Lively Years” to variants masquerading as popular Chinese apps or tools. Once installed, Datzbro grants itself extensive permissions and weaponizes Android accessibility services to perform actions on behalf of the attacker. It can record audio, capture photos, harvest files, log keystrokes and overlay semi-transparent screens to hide malicious activity from victims. A distinctive feature is its “schematic remote control” mode, which reports screen layout, element positions and content back to operators so they can reconstruct interfaces remotely and direct the device as if they were looking over the victim’s shoulder. 

The trojan also filters accessibility event logs for bank or wallet package names and scans for text resembling PINs, passwords or transaction codes. If it finds credentials in cookies or other storage, Datzbro exfiltrates them to the attackers’ back end; it can even steal lock-screen PINs and compromise popular Chinese payment apps such as Alipay and WeChat. ThreatFabric noted Chinese debug strings and a Chinese-language desktop command-and-control application tied to the campaign, suggesting the authors are Chinese-speaking. A compiled C2 client reportedly leaked to public malware repositories, which may accelerate wider abuse by other criminals. 

Datzbro’s discovery comes amid broader mobile-banking malware activity. IBM X-Force has described a related AntiDot campaign called PhantomCall that similarly abuses Android features and sideloaded droppers to bypass modern OS protections, while PRODAFT has documented MaaS-style offerings for actors aiming at global banks. Together, these trends reflect a sustained move toward targeted social engineering that exploits community trust to coax vulnerable users into installing powerful remote-control malware. 

The rapid evolution of these threats underscores the need for heightened public awareness—especially among seniors—tighter app-distribution controls, and stronger defenses around accessibility permissions and sideloaded software.
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VexTrio scams
Cyber Fraud cybercrime group Fake Apps malware alerts online romance scams scareware threats VexTrio scams

Infoblox Unmasks VexTrio: The Russian Cybercrime Syndicate Fueling Malware, Fake Apps, and Online Scams

 

At the Black Hat conference in Las Vegas, cybersecurity experts from Infoblox revealed new details about VexTrio, a highly organized cybercrime group running a traffic distribution system (TDS) that spreads malware, delivers fake security alerts, and tricks users into installing fraudulent apps.

Ahead of the event, Dr. Renee Burton, a threat intelligence researcher at Infoblox, explained how to identify and avoid malicious online advertising.

“Windows Defender, Microsoft, Google, none of those guys are going to suddenly take over your screen,” Burton said.

Contrary to the “hoodie-wearing hacker” stereotype, Infoblox’s research indicates VexTrio operates like a corporate enterprise. Based in Russia, the group reportedly runs multiple companies in the adtech sector.

“This is an organized crime effort run largely by Russians to take control of the world,” said Burton.

With a decade-long track record, VexTrio uses backend exploits in major websites to target unsuspecting users. Partnering with freelance hackers, the syndicate fingerprints visitors’ browsers to decide whether to display legitimate content or redirect them to malware, fake app downloads, or scam sites.

If you’ve ever been interrupted online by an urgent alert urging you to run a virus scan or install a VPN, you may have seen VexTrio’s tactics in action.

The group’s scareware campaigns often include fake captchas to harvest browser data or prompt users to enable push notifications, which then unleash waves of deceptive ads.

“Once you click Allow, you're now opted in and you’ll see a torrent of advertising, but it’s disinformation,” Burton warned. “Everything is a scam.”

3 Key VexTrio Tactics and How to Defend Against Them

  • Fraudulent Apps – VexTrio distributes fake VPNs, ad blockers, and even dating apps downloaded millions of times. Always verify an app’s legitimacy before installing.
  • Fake Device Infection Alerts – Dismiss sudden pop-ups claiming your device is infected. Burton’s advice: “Calm down. Do not call that phone number.”
  • Romance Scams – Using high-volume, low-cost tactics, VexTrio exploits dating platforms to extract small amounts of money from numerous victims.

Burton stressed that staying safe online means avoiding suspicious alerts, refusing unnecessary permissions, and reporting scams to the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).

“As long as you don't allow anything, you’ll be OK. When all else fails, reboot your system.”
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North Korean
Android App Safety Android Apps Android Spyware data security Fake Apps Google Play Google Play fake apps Mobile Security North Korean

North Korean Spyware Disguised as Android Apps Found on Google Play

 

Researchers have discovered at least five Android apps on Google Play that secretly function as spyware for the North Korean government. Despite passing Google Play’s security checks, these apps collect personal data from users without their knowledge. The malware, dubbed KoSpy by security firm Lookout, is embedded in utility apps that claim to assist with file management, software updates, and even device security. 

However, instead of providing real benefits, these apps function as surveillance tools, gathering a range of sensitive information. KoSpy-infected apps can collect SMS messages, call logs, location data, files, nearby audio, keystrokes, Wi-Fi details, and installed apps. Additionally, they can take screenshots and record users’ screens, potentially exposing private conversations, banking credentials, and other confidential data. All collected information is sent to servers controlled by North Korean intelligence operatives, raising serious cybersecurity concerns. 

Lookout researchers believe with “medium confidence” that two well-known North Korean advanced persistent threat (APT) groups, APT37 (ScarCruft) and APT43 (Kimsuki), are behind these spyware apps. These groups are known for conducting cyber espionage and targeting individuals in South Korea, the United States, and other countries. The malicious apps have been found in at least two app stores, including Google Play and Apkpure. The affected apps include 휴대폰 관리자 (Phone Manager), File Manager, 스마트 관리자 (Smart Manager), 카카오 보안 (Kakao Security), and Software Update Utility. 

On the surface, these apps appear legitimate, making it difficult for users to identify them as threats. According to Ars Technica, the developer email addresses are standard Gmail accounts, and the privacy policies are hosted on Blogspot, which does not raise immediate suspicions. However, a deeper analysis of the IP addresses linked to these apps reveals connections to North Korean intelligence operations dating back to 2019. These command-and-control servers have been used for previous cyberespionage campaigns. 

Google responded to the findings by stating that the “most recent app sample” was removed from Google Play before any users could download it. While this is reassuring, it highlights the ongoing risk of malicious apps bypassing security measures. Google also emphasized that its Play Protect service can detect certain malicious apps when installed, regardless of the source.  

This case serves as another reminder of the risks associated with installing apps, even from official sources like Google Play. Users should always scrutinize app permissions and avoid installing unnecessary applications. A file manager, for example, should not require access to location data. By staying cautious and using reputable security tools, Android users can better protect their personal information from spyware threats.
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Mobile Malware
Bank Information Security Cyber Attacks data security Data Theft Fake Apps Malicious Apps Malware attacks Mobile Malware

Massive Mobile Malware Campaign Targets Indian Banks, Steals Financial Data

 

Zimperium's zLabs research team has uncovered a significant mobile malware campaign that targets Indian banks. First reported on February 5, 2025, this threat was orchestrated by a threat actor called FatBoyPanel. Nearly 900 malware samples are used in the campaign, which is distributed via WhatsApp and uses malicious apps that impersonate banking or government apps to steal private and sensitive financial data from unsuspecting users.  

Once installed, the malicious apps steal the users data, such as credit and debit card information, ATM PINs, Aadhaar card details, PAN card numbers, and mobile banking information. Additionally, the malware uses sophisticated stealth techniques to conceal itself and avoid detection or removal by intercepting SMS messages that contain OTPs. 

By using the reputation and legitimacy of Indian banks and government agencies to trick users into thinking the apps are authentic, this cyberattack is a clear illustration of how threat actors have advanced to a new level. These cybercriminals are deceiving users into downloading malicious apps intended to drain accounts and compromise sensitive data by posing as trustworthy organizations. 

Upon closer examination, the malware can be divided into three different types: hybrid, firebase-exfiltration, and SMS forwarding. Different exfiltration techniques are used by each variant to steal confidential information. By employing live phone numbers to intercept and reroute SMS messages in real time, these Trojan Bankers go beyond standard attacks. By hiding its icon, the malware makes itself even more difficult to remove. 

According to a Zimperium report, more than 1,000 malicious applications were created with the intention of stealing banking credentials. An estimated 50,000 victims were impacted by the campaign, which revealed 2.5GB of financial and personal data kept in 222 unprotected Firebase buckets. Attackers have been able to trick users into divulging extremely sensitive information by using phony government and banking apps that are distributed via WhatsApp. 

This breach has serious repercussions, including the possibility of identity theft, financial loss, and privacy violations for impacted users. In order to assist authorities in locating the cybercriminals responsible for FatBoyPanel, Zimperium has shared the gathered data with them. Users should use security software to identify and eliminate malware, update their devices frequently, and refrain from downloading apps from unidentified sources in order to protect themselves. 

On Thursday, Feb. 20, Zimperium, the global leader in mobile security, will release new research highlighting the evolving landscape of mobile phishing attacks.

As organizations increasingly rely on mobile devices for business operations including BYOD, multi-factor authentication, cloud applications, and mobile-first workflows, mobile phishing is becoming one of the most severe threats to enterprise security. Adversaries are exploiting security gaps in mobile and cloud-based business applications, expanding the attack surface and increasing exposure to credential theft and data compromise.

Zimperium’s latest research provides a data-driven look at how attackers are evolving their tactics to evade detection and why businesses must rethink their security strategies to stay ahead. 

Key findings from the report include: Mishing surge: Activity peaked in August 2024, with over 1,000 daily attack records. Smishing (SMS/text based phishing) attacks dominate globally with 37% in India, 16% in the U.S., and 9% in Brazil. Quishing (QR code phishing) is gaining traction, with notable activity in Japan (17%), the U.S. (15%), and India (11%). Stealthy phishing techniques: 3% of phishing sites use device-specific detection to display harmless content on desktops while delivering malicious phishing payloads exclusively to mobile users. Zimperium’s research emphasizes that traditional anti-phishing solutions designed for desktops are proving inadequate against this shift, making mobile threat defense a critical necessity for organizations worldwide.

The FatBoyPanel campaign emphasizes the need for increased vigilance in an increasingly digital world and the increasing sophistication of cyber threats. Keeping up with online security best practices is crucial to reducing risks and protecting financial and personal information as cybercriminals improve their tactics.
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Telegram
Android Malware Fake Apps FireScam malware Social Media Telegram

FireScam Malware Targets Android Users via Fake Telegram Premium App

Android Malware 'FireScam' Poses As Telegram Premium to Steal User Data


A newly discovered Android malware, FireScam, is being distributed through phishing websites on GitHub, masquerading as a premium version of the Telegram application. These malicious sites impersonate RuStore, a Russian app marketplace, to deceive users into downloading the infected software.

How FireScam Operates

RuStore, launched by Russian tech giant VK (VKontakte) in May 2022, was developed as an alternative to Apple's App Store and Google Play following Western sanctions that restricted Russian users' access to global platforms. This marketplace hosts apps that comply with Russian regulations and operates under the oversight of the Russian Ministry of Digital Development.

According to security researchers at CYFIRMA, attackers have set up a fraudulent GitHub page mimicking RuStore. This fake website delivers a dropper module named GetAppsRu.apk. Once installed, the dropper requests extensive permissions, allowing it to scan installed applications, access device storage, and install additional software. It then downloads and executes the main malware payload, disguised as Telegram Premium.apk. This secondary payload enables the malware to monitor notifications, read clipboard data, access SMS and call information, and collect other sensitive details.

FireScam’s Advanced Capabilities

Once activated, FireScam presents users with a deceptive WebView-based Telegram login page designed to steal credentials. The malware communicates with Firebase Realtime Database, allowing stolen data to be uploaded instantly. It also assigns unique identifiers to compromised devices, enabling hackers to track them.

Stolen data is temporarily stored before being filtered and transferred to another location, ensuring that traces are erased from Firebase. Additionally, FireScam establishes a persistent WebSocket connection with the Firebase command-and-control (C2) server, enabling real-time command execution. This allows attackers to:

  • Request specific data from the infected device
  • Install additional payloads
  • Modify surveillance parameters
  • Initiate immediate data uploads

Furthermore, the malware can:

  • Monitor screen activity and app usage
  • Track changes in screen on/off states
  • Log keystrokes, clipboard data, and credentials stored in password managers
  • Intercept and steal e-commerce payment details

How to Stay Safe

While the identity of FireScam’s operators remains unknown, CYFIRMA researchers warn that the malware exhibits advanced evasion techniques and poses a serious threat to users. To minimize the risk of infection, users should:

  • Avoid downloading apps from unverified sources, especially those claiming to be premium versions of popular software.
  • Exercise caution when opening links from unknown sources.
  • Regularly review and restrict app permissions to prevent unauthorized data access.
  • Use reliable security solutions to detect and block malware threats.

As attackers continue refining their tactics, staying vigilant against phishing campaigns and suspicious downloads is essential to protecting personal and financial data.


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Ukraine
Fake Apps malware RSA Ukraine

Malware Targets Ukrainian Military via Fake App

 



Cybersecurity experts said that a malware campaign targeting Ukraine's military personnel has been released. The malware is spread with the help of a fake installer for an app called "Army+." That installer looks perfectly legitimate but embeds malicious code. It will install the Tor browser and use the hidden PowerShell script to carry on malicious activities; this means that there is misuse of the Tor browser for secretive purposes rather than any other purpose that it was used for.


How the Malware Works

The installation process starts with the fake app ArmyPlusInstaller. It launches a decoy application, ArmyPlus.exe, to avoid suspicion. In the background, a hidden script, init.ps1, works to bypass security restrictions on the system.

It would normally block such unauthorized scripts to keep a computer safe. But the malware will play with security settings by means of specific PowerShell commands to have the liberty of working freely. It even reduces the size of the console window to conceal all its actions and create further illusion. It plants files in strategic locations

The malware spreads its files throughout the folders of the system to remain hidden. For instance, the Tor browser files are stored in a directory called OneDriveData, while OpenSSH files, which give the attackers remote access, are kept in a folder called ssh.

This init.ps1 script plays a crucial role as it can pull down and install the Tor browser for use in secret operations. The init.ps1 script establishes communication between the compromised computer and the attacker, giving them an avenue through which to command the system from a stealth position.


Backdoor That Survives Reboot

After installation, it establishes a backdoor through which attackers secretly command the system remotely. The system information is then transmitted along with a public RSA key through Tor to a remote server. The latter facilitates communication from the attackers side encrypted through that public RSA key. In that manner, an attacker is in a position to issue commands, and if they have their ways, may end up commanding at a very high level within the system.


Exploiting User Trust

A devious malware installer masquerading as a program installation. Requesting administrative credentials, which may be granted unwarily by innocent users. Once the visible, front-end app fails, all the malicious instructions are executed on the backhand in silence silently, including accessing and transmitting some sensitive information it has gathered.


Why Is This Important

This incident highlights how cybercriminals exploit everyday tools, like PowerShell and Tor, to hide their attacks. In this way, they mimic legitimate software, making it harder for standard defenses to detect them.

It is a reminder for all of us to download software only from trusted sources and for organizations to regularly update their security measures. Being alert will help prevent such stealthy cyberattacks from succeeding.

This development underlines the increasing nuances in cyber threats in conflict zones as attackers continue to evolve their techniques to evade detection.


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Malware attacks
AI generated Deepfake AI tools Cyber Attacks data security Data Theft Fake Apps Information Security Malware attacks

Meeten Malware Targets Web3 Workers with Crypto-Stealing Tactics

 


Cybercriminals have launched an advanced campaign targeting Web3 professionals by distributing fake video conferencing software. The malware, known as Meeten, infects both Windows and macOS systems, stealing sensitive data, including cryptocurrency, banking details, browser-stored information, and Keychain credentials. Active since September 2024, Meeten masquerades as legitimate software while compromising users' systems. 
 
The campaign, uncovered by Cado Security Labs, represents an evolving strategy among threat actors. Frequently rebranded to appear authentic, fake meeting platforms have been renamed as Clusee, Cuesee, and Meetone. These platforms are supported by highly convincing websites and AI-generated social media profiles. 
 
How Victims Are Targeted:
  • Phishing schemes and social engineering tactics are the primary methods.
  • Attackers impersonate trusted contacts on platforms like Telegram.
  • Victims are directed to download the fraudulent Meeten app, often accompanied by fake company-specific presentations.

Key behaviors include:
  • Escalates privileges by prompting users for their system password via legitimate macOS tools.
  • Displays a decoy error message while stealing sensitive data in the background.
  • Collects and exfiltrates data such as Telegram credentials, banking details, Keychain data, and browser-stored information.
The stolen data is compressed and sent to remote servers, giving attackers access to victims’ sensitive information. 
 
Technical Details: Malware Behavior on Windows 

On Windows, the malware is delivered as an NSIS file named MeetenApp.exe, featuring a stolen digital certificate for added legitimacy. Key behaviors include:
  • Employs an Electron app to connect to remote servers and download additional malware payloads.
  • Steals system information, browser data, and cryptocurrency wallet credentials, targeting hardware wallets like Ledger and Trezor.
  • Achieves persistence by modifying the Windows registry.
Impact on Web3 Professionals 
 
Web3 professionals are particularly vulnerable as the malware leverages social engineering tactics to exploit trust. By targeting those engaged in cryptocurrency and blockchain technologies, attackers aim to gain access to valuable digital assets. Protective Measures:
  1. Verify Software Legitimacy: Always confirm the authenticity of downloaded software.
  2. Use Malware Scanning Tools: Scan files with services like VirusTotal before installation.
  3. Avoid Untrusted Sources: Download software only from verified sources.
  4. Stay Vigilant: Be cautious of unsolicited meeting invitations or unexpected file-sharing requests.
As social engineering tactics grow increasingly sophisticated, vigilance and proactive security measures are critical in safeguarding sensitive data and cryptocurrency assets. The Meeten campaign underscores the importance of staying informed and adopting robust cybersecurity practices in the Web3 landscape.
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Trading
Apple cryptocurrency Cyber Fraud Cybersecurity Fake Apps Fraud Google investment phishing Scam Trading

Massive Global Fraud Campaign Exploits Fake Trading Apps on Apple and Google Platforms

 

A recent investigation by Group-IB revealed a large-scale fraud operation involving fake trading apps on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, as well as phishing sites to deceive victims. The scheme is part of a wider investment scam known as "pig butchering," where fraudsters lure victims into investments by posing as romantic partners or financial advisors.

Victims are manipulated into losing funds, with scammers often requesting additional fees before disappearing with the money.

Group-IB, based in Singapore, noted that the campaign targets victims globally, with reports from regions like Asia-Pacific, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. The fraudulent apps, created using the UniApp Framework, are labeled under "UniShadowTrade" and have been active since mid-2023, offering promises of quick financial gains.

One app, SBI-INT, even bypassed Apple’s App Store review process, giving it an illusion of legitimacy. The app disguised itself as a tool for algebraic formulas and 3D graphics calculations but was eventually removed from the marketplace.

The app used a technique that checked if the date was before July 22, 2024, and, if so, displayed a fake screen with mathematical formulas. After being taken down, scammers began distributing it via phishing websites for Android and iOS users.

For iOS, downloading the app involved installing a .plist file, requiring users to trust an Enterprise developer profile manually. Once done, the fraudulent app became operational, asking users for their phone number, password, and an invitation code.

After registration, victims went through a six-step process involving identity verification, providing personal details, and agreeing to terms for investments. Scammers then instructed them on which financial instruments to invest in, falsely promising high returns.

When victims tried to withdraw their funds, they were asked to pay additional fees to retrieve their investments, but the funds were instead stolen.

The malware also included a configuration with details about the URL hosting the login page, hidden within the app to avoid detection. One of these URLs was hosted by a legitimate service, TermsFeed, used for generating privacy policies and cookie consent banners.

Group-IB discovered another fake app on the Google Play Store called FINANS INSIGHTS, which had fewer than 5,000 downloads. A second app, FINANS TRADER6, was also linked to the same developer. Both apps targeted countries like Japan, South Korea, Cambodia, Thailand, and Cyprus.

Users are advised to be cautious with links, avoid messages from unknown sources, verify investment platforms, and review apps and their ratings before downloading.
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