New Android Trojans Octo2 and Necro Threaten Millions of Devices Across Europe

Cybersecurity researchers have recently identified two new Android trojans, Octo2 and Necro, that are targeting millions of devices across Europe. These malicious programs are designed to take control of smartphones and tablets, leading to fraudulent activities and data theft. With the growing sophistication of these attacks, it’s crucial for Android users to understand the risks and protect themselves.

What is Octo2?
Octo2 is an evolved version of a previous malware called Octo, which itself originates from the Exobot trojan discovered in 2016. Octo2 has enhanced capabilities that allow hackers to remotely control infected devices, making it possible to carry out fraudulent transactions without the user’s knowledge. This dangerous malware has been detected in various European countries, including Moldova, Italy, Hungary, and Poland.

Key features of Octo2:

• Remote device control: Hackers can take over a device to perform invisible actions, such as transferring money from banking apps.
• Data interception: Octo2 is capable of intercepting sensitive information like login credentials and financial details.
• Wide distribution: It spreads through malicious Android applications, including counterfeit versions of popular apps like NordVPN and Google Chrome.

How Octo2 evolved

Octo2’s development can be traced back to the leak of the Octo source code earlier this year. This leak has enabled hackers to create multiple variants of the malware, making it more accessible and adaptable for cybercriminals. The malware is distributed through a service called Zombinder, which bundles malicious code into seemingly legitimate apps.

Threats to mobile banking users

One of the most concerning aspects of Octo2 is its ability to carry out fraud on mobile banking apps. By controlling the device, the malware can perform unauthorized transactions, steal login credentials, and even bypass two-factor authentication, leaving users vulnerable to financial theft.

Necro Trojan: Another growing threat
Alongside Octo2, the Necro trojan has also emerged as a serious security threat. This malware primarily installs adware, which loads web pages in the background to generate revenue for attackers. However, Necro is more than just an annoyance—it can download and execute malicious code on the infected device, giving hackers control over various functionalities.

Risks posed by Necro Trojan:

• Adware installation: Generates revenue for attackers by loading web pages and clicking ads without user consent.
• Arbitrary code execution: Necro can download and run multiple malicious programs, increasing the potential for further attacks or data breaches.

Protecting your device from Octo2 and Necro
To defend against these sophisticated trojans, users must take proactive measures. Here are some essential steps for staying safe:

• Download apps only from trusted sources: Stick to official app stores like the Google Play Store, which offer more security checks.
• Enable Play Protect: This built-in Android tool automatically scans apps for harmful behavior. While it’s enabled by default, users should regularly check their settings to ensure Play Protect is active.
• Install antivirus software: Regular scans with a reputable antivirus program can help detect and remove malware before it causes harm.
• Be cautious with app permissions: Avoid granting excessive permissions to apps that don’t require them, especially those that ask for access to sensitive data or device control.

What to do if your device is infected
If you suspect that your Android device has been infected by Octo2, Necro, or any other malware, immediate action is essential to minimize damage. Here’s what to do:

1. Uninstall the suspicious app: Remove any apps you believe might be malicious.
2. Run a full antivirus scan: Use your preferred antivirus software to scan for and remove any remaining threats.
3. Change critical passwords: Update passwords for sensitive accounts, particularly those related to banking and financial services.

Fact check

• Octo2 is a variant of the Exobot malware, which has been in existence since 2016. Its latest version is particularly dangerous for mobile banking users, as it allows hackers to perform invisible actions on compromised devices.
• Necro Trojan not only installs adware but also has the capacity to execute additional malicious code on the infected device, giving attackers further control over the system.
• Play Protect is a vital tool for Android users, providing real-time scanning and malware detection for apps downloaded from the Google Play Store.

Conclusion
As cyber threats targeting Android devices grow more sophisticated, it’s important for users to remain vigilant and take preventative steps to safeguard their personal data and financial information. Malware like Octo2 and Necro show how easily hackers can exploit vulnerabilities in mobile devices. By following best practices, such as installing apps from trusted sources and using reliable security software, users can significantly reduce their risk of falling victim to these malicious programs.