An app was recently taken down from the Google Play Store. It turns out it was harboring malware. This malware was capable of stealing users’ data, including sensitive information like text messages.
This remote access trojan, or RAT, is called TeaBot. Security experts have been tracking it since the beginning of 2021.
Reports indicate that this trojan had the ability to swipe information. This includes things like text messages and user login credentials. We’re eager to hear your take on this incident. What are your thoughts on an app available on the official Google Play Store containing malware designed to steal data?
Share your thoughts in the comments below!
The app, which has been removed, was called QR Code & Barcode – Scanner. As the name suggests, it was designed to scan various QR and barcodes.
Initially, when installed from Google Play, the app was malware-free. However, after installation, users received prompts to update the app.
Clicking the update prompt redirected users to a Github page. This page hosted what was advertised as an update, but was, in fact, the TeaBot trojan malware.
Cleafy, a respected security firm, has reported finding this trojan in other apps and APKs too. This includes the well-known streaming app TeaTV.
For a comprehensive look at TeaBot, you can check out Cleafy’s full report. Just follow the link below.
TeaBot is Now Spreading Across the Globe – Cleafy
Before Google removed it, QR Code & Barcode – Scanner had been downloaded over 10,000 times from the Google Play Store. If you happen to have this app installed on your Android device, it’s crucial that you delete it right away.
Steps to Protect Yourself
If you frequently install various apps and APKs on your Android device, taking steps to protect yourself is essential.
It’s important to remember that even apps available in the Google Play Store can sometimes slip past Google’s security checks. They might contain hidden malware.
At TROYPOINT, we strongly recommend scanning all apps and APKs before installing them. This applies to any Android device, including Firestick/Fire TV. We suggest using a tool called VirusTotal for this purpose.
VirusTotal is a highly effective tool for detecting and analyzing suspicious files. This includes malware like TeaBot and other threats.
How to Install VirusTotal on Firestick/Android
Another crucial step is to encrypt your data on all your devices by using a VPN.
A VPN safeguards your online identity and ensures your anonymity. It shields you from prying eyes, including internet service providers and potential hackers.
We’re interested in hearing your perspective on apps that harbor malware designed to steal personal data. Share your thoughts and concerns in the comments section below!
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