Urgent warning for Android owners to ‘delete app now’ – it steals your texts and everything you type
ANDROID users have been warned about a dangerous app that can steal your personal information.
A new malicious app is targeting Android users who are active on WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, and Facebook Messenger.
The app, dubbed “Safe Chat,” is designed to look like a legitimate messaging app.
In reality, however, it is actually malware that can steal your messaging data, contacts, and other personal information.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
CYFIRMA, the experts who uncovered the malicious app, explained how the app works on their website.
The malware is spread through instant messaging services like WhatApp via social engineering tactics like phishing.
Phishing is an attack where attackers deceive people into revealing sensitive information.
The message may purport to a victim that there is a “safer” messaging service out there and then link to the imposter app.
After downloading, users may even be fooled by the app’s design, which tricks them into believing they can communicate with their contacts.
But, in actuality, they cant – the app is only working to steal their data.
Moreover, it can send premium SMS messages to their phone number, which can cost them money.
HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF
There are several things you can do to mitigate your risk of falling victim to a phishing scam.
First, you should pause when coming across a strange email or text as it could be a scam.
Also of major importance is never to click on a link, reply to a text, or give out any information to a caller.
You should always validate a request before doing anything, and if you think it’s a scam, delete the message or hang up the phone.