Researchers at MTI Security have unearthed a particularly advanced strain of Android malware called Sturnus, which threatens to compromise the data and security of mobile phone owners. The malware reportedly employs advanced interception techniques to capture data and circumvent even the best application-level encryption, making the security features of popular messaging apps like WhatsApp, Telegram and Signal pointless.
The Sturnus malware does not need to crack encryption, according to MTI. Instead, it uses a sophisticated trick: the malware takes a screenshot once the messages have been decrypted for viewing.By exploiting a device’s ability to read the on-screen contents in real time, Sturnus can steal private message texts without leaving a trace. This means that scammers can access sensitive chats, and potentially collect personally identifiable information (PII) or financial data if shared in secure chats.
In addition to message interception, Sturnus employs complex social engineering to steal credentials. The malware is capable to display fake login screens that looks like real banking apps, and can be very convincing. Users can inadvertently provide their information to the hackers if they use their login details on these fake sites.
Sturnus can also simulate an Android system update screen, making the victim believe a normal update is being installed while malicious operations take place in the background. Perhaps most disturbingly, the researchers warn that Sturnus can also increase its privileges by tracking unlock attempts and recording device passwords or PINs. This allows the malware to gain root access which lets the attackers prevent the victims from removing the malicious code or regaining control of their devices.
The majority of Sturnus infections detected so far are positively grouped in Southern and Central Europe, according to surveillance and analysis by the cybersecurity firm Threat Fabric. Such a restricted geography suggests that threat actors are still experimenting with the capabilities of the malware and the way it operates before potentially launching a worldwide campaign.
Experts recommend users of Android to be cautious, refrain from downloading apps from unknown sources and be wary when asked accessibility or overlay permissions to apps they don’t know. But with its progress, Sturnus also exhibits the increasing complexity of Android malware and the difficulty in keeping users safe in a landscape of continuously evolving mobile threats.
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