All about Android worm, the WhatsApp malware infecting users’ contact list

Android users are being attacked by a new type of
malware that tricks them into downloading a fake app and the worst part is
that the malicious software can enter one’s device through messaging app Whatsapp
as well.

The malware known as ‘Android worm’ sets foot in one’s
device as a simple WhatsApp message and goes on to infect contact list without
user’s knowledge.

The so-called Android worm, however, can infect a user’s device only if they receive the message and click on the link that contains the malware.

How to identify the malware threat?

The
malware approaches a device via a message from an already affected contact or an unknown user, which generally asks or request user
to download a certain app by offering a reward or cash backs in some cases.
Once a person falls prey to it and downloads the app, it makes user to enable a
number of functions and permissions. This is when the malware enters your
device.

Also Read: Terrorist groups in Pakistan abandon WhatsApp, Facebook, shift to new messaging apps over privacy concern

Once
the permissions are granted, a hidden capability activates in the device.
This makes your device behave in a way
that once you receive a text on WhatsApp from another user, your app will
automatically reply to their message with a link to the dodgy site.

The intention behind this scam is to bombard the recipient with the ads which make money for criminals or to con people into signing up for a subscription services at each click.

How to avoid such malware?

The best and only way to avoid such malicious software from
attacking your device is to refrain from clicking on any unknown link that you
receive on WhatsApp or downloading any app from an outside source.

If you receive a suspicious message like this from a
known contact, try to confirm the source of the link and whether or not it they
sent it by contacting the person on a separate platform.

To keep your device secured, download all the apps from the Google Play store only.