Data Stealing Apps Released on Android Market

Smartphone security is once again threatened by hackers or in this case, Android app developers who want to make a profit. Five new tools have hit the internet, ready to be downloaded by any wannabe spy.

Malware City's blog informs us that even though the apps are advertised as being for study purposes only, Bitdefender has identified the threat as Android.Spyware.GoneSixty.Gen. The virtual spy is supposedly capable of doing the dirty work in just a minute.

The stealer has to be downloaded and installed to the victim's device first, but after this job is done, the rest of the operation is a piece of cake. It is then capable of uploading to an internet location all the information found on the phone, such as messages, contact lists and browser history.

It's pretty clear that the tool is not made for test purposes as in that case it wouldn't need a self-destruct mechanism that makes sure no traces of the application remain after it has been successfully used.

This application is a potential gold mine, for both the one that sells it and for those that make use of it. The stolen information can be accessed by entering a code on the developer's site and while contact lists are free, the more sensitive stuff is made available if a $5(€3.5) fee is paid.

Even though the people who control the tools claim that everything obtained by their utility will be deleted after a day of storage, the temptation of keeping massive quantities of sensitive data, part of which might contain corporate info, is big.

We've talked lately about the importance of protecting smart mobile devices, this case proving that point even further. A good mobile AV solution could never hurt, especially if your job forces you to keep company documents on your smartphone. Also, make sure you don't leave your phone unattended because you never know when someone wants to spy on you.