Security researchers from Lookout have discovered that some apps hosted on the Google Play Store and Samsung Galaxy Store are coming pre-loaded with Rooting Malware that allows hackers to take control of the device within no time and install additional malicious software that can prove devastating to any android smartphone user on an overall note.
Named as AbstractEMU Rooting Malware allows the bad guys siphon sensitive data from the infected device and has the potential to transit it to remote servers. It includes data such as contacts, SMS messages, location info, images and videos and all communication made through the microphone.
AbstractEMU malware has the potential to conceal and develop itself into a notorious software that can steal a device password, disable the security settings and conceal itself from the automated security checks made by Google Play Protect.
By keeping a mobile phone up to date with all required updates such as security patches, and keeping a tab on the permissions acquired by the newly installed app helps in keeping such malware at bay.
Note- Google Play Store, formerly known as Android Market, is an app store that hosts applications certified to run on Android devices, and Chrome OS and related Browser. It is available for free of charge. However, some premium content such as apps and services can be available after paying certain amount. In 2019, the app store reached a milestone by completing over 129 billion app downloads and hosting over 3 million apps.
