Android TV box malware found in 1.3M devices
CHEAP ANDROID PHONES FOUND WITH MALWARE ALREADY INSTALLED Google says the operation involved Videostrong Technology, a China-based company that manufactures Android-powered devices for different brands.
Key points
- According to Google, Videostrong sold access to compromised devices to criminal affiliates, who installed additional malware and turned those products into part of a botnet.
- The malware was built directly into the devices, and some affected products made it through Google's own security certification process.
- Google also found malware capable of generating fake advertising activity.
That's the alarming discovery behind a massive Android TV box malware operation involving more than 1.3 million devices worldwide.
5 WORRISOME PRIVACY CLAUSES HIDDEN IN SMART HOME DEVICES Normally, manufacturers must pass Google's compatibility and security checks before shipping certified Android devices with Google's services.
Additional details
- Someone you've never encountered could be using your internet connection without your permission, while your streaming box continues playing Netflix or YouTube.
- Researchers observed operators capturing screenshots, injecting keystrokes and collecting sensitive account information from compromised devices.
- Most were Android TV streaming boxes, although the operation also reached other types of connected hardware.
- The software allowed remote operators to maintain access to devices long after customers purchased them.
- But what if that little box has been secretly working for criminals since the day you brought it home?
How this summary was made: extractive summary — built from the sources' own reporting. It is drawn only from the reporting of the sources listed below — read the originals for full detail. How we summarize →
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