Unsuspecting users trying to verify their authenticity on social media are currently being targeted by a dangerous new user Android Spyware It is called Rat Milad.
As I mentioned Computer (Opens in a new tab) And first discovered by mobile security company Zimperium, RatMilad is not your model MalwareAnd the Because it acts as a remote access trojan (Mouse) capable of stealing a variety of data and spying on victims’ conversations.
At the moment, RatMilad is used mainly in the Middle East, but spyware may soon reach the United States and other countries, as it is especially useful for collecting data on potential victims. With the help of RatMilad, an attacker can blackmail infected users or even commit cyber espionage.
Infecting users with fake Android apps
While the original version of RatMilad was distributed through a fake phone spoofing app called Text Me, the cybercriminals behind the spyware have since updated the app and renamed it NumRent. Such apps are often used in countries where social media is completely banned.
In order to promote the fake Android app used to download RatMilad, cybercriminals have created an app website. The links to this site are then shared on cable and other social media platforms trying to trick users into downloading and installing it. according to Blog post (Opens in a new tab) From Zimperium, the main Telegram channel used to promote NumRent and infect users with the RatMilad malware, it has been viewed more than 4,700 times with over 200 external posts.
Once installed on the victim’s Android smartphone, RatMilad hides behind a file VPN It collects information about the device itself as well as its user including contacts, call logs, text messages, GPS location data, and more.
To make matters worse, RatMilad can also delete and steal files, modify app permissions, and even use the infected device’s microphone to record audio and eavesdrop on victims. This is why spyware can easily be used to commit corporate spying and steal sensitive corporate information.
How to stay safe from spyware and other Android malware
The simplest and easiest way to avoid falling victim to fake Android apps used to distribute spyware and malware is to download only new apps from official app stores like Google Play Store, Amazon Appstore and Samsung Galaxy Store. until then , malicious apps I manage to get past Google’s defenses from time to time, which is why you should carefully check reviews and app ratings before installing any new app.
If you have one of Best Android PhonesYou should also make sure of that google play for protection It is enabled on your device because this free tool can help protect you from malicious apps, malware, and other viruses. Those who are more at risk than regular users should also consider registering with Google Advanced Protection Program.
Regardless of your level of risk, you may also want to install one of the Best antivirus apps for Android On your device just for added peace of mind.
Given the abundance of information that RatMilad can collect and the series of malicious actions it can perform on an infected device, cybercriminals will likely continue to use spyware in their attacks. We can also see it bundled with other fake apps where the cybercriminals behind them may try to expand their operations.
