+

Cookies on the Business Insider India website

Business Insider India has updated its Privacy and Cookie policy. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the better experience on our website. If you continue without changing your settings, we\'ll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies on the Business Insider India website. However, you can change your cookie setting at any time by clicking on our Cookie Policy at any time. You can also see our Privacy Policy.

Close
HomeQuizzoneWhatsappShare Flash Reads
 

This new Android malware sits silently on your phone to remotely take control of your device

Apr 12, 2022, 16:14 IST
Business Insider India
Unsplash
  • Octo, a subset of ExoCompact malware has been discovered by ThreatFabric.
  • The malware can take control of your device remotely.
  • According to ThreatFabric, Octo is actively being sold to hackers on the darknet forums.
Advertisement
If you are an Android user then you should be careful of a new malware named Octo. It is designed to take control of your smartphone remotely, compromising important information including banking details.

Octo has been identified by ThreatFabric and they also shared a report that how it is being spread through darknet forums. The detailed report also shed some light on its existence. It evolved from ExoCompact malware which is based on Exo trojan.

Octo has advanced remote access capabilities powered by a live streaming module that is updated every second. Once an Android smartphone is compromised with Octo, it uses the black screen to hide remote operations. It sets screen brightness to zero and disables all the notifications by activating no interruption mode. Octo will also allow attackers to see what you’re typing on the keyboard including passwords and bank details.

Complimentary Tech Event
Transform talent with learning that works
Capability development is critical for businesses who want to push the envelope of innovation.Discover how business leaders are strategizing around building talent capabilities and empowering employee transformation.Know More
Octo also features a list of commands like blocked notifications, temporary screen lock, SMS interception, remote access and even sending SMS to a specific number.

According to the report, Octo is being sold on online forums by using the alias ‘goodluck’ or ‘architect’.

Advertisement

List of known Android apps containing the Octo malware
  1. Pocket Screencaster
  2. Fast Cleaner 2021
  3. Pocket Screencaster
  4. BAWAG PSK Security
  5. Play Store app install
Protect your device from Octo
The only possible way to protect your device from Octo and other malicious Android apps is to be careful about what you install. Once malware is on your device then everything is accessible. Limit the number of apps you install and only install apps from trusted sources. Also, make sure Play Protect is activated on your device.

SEE ALSO:
Amazon Fab Phones Fest 2022: best offers on mid-range smartphones
WhatsApp likely to roll out new drawing tools and media visibility features
Next Article