A text message scam that infects Android phones is spreading across the UK, warns the country’s National Cyber Security Centre.
The message which pretends to be from a package delivery firm, prompts users to install a tracking app – but is a malicious piece of spyware.
A malicious piece of spyware, known as ‘FluBot’ is installed when a victim receives a text message, asking them to install a tracking app due to a ‘missed package delivery’. The tracking app is spyware that steals passwords and other sensitive data.
It will also access contact details and send out additional text messages, further spreading the spyware. The text message requests that victims click a link, upon clicking the link directs them to a scam website.
The U.K.’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) advises that “If you were expecting a DHL delivery, you should visit the official DHL website (track.dhlparcel.co.uk) to track your delivery. Do not use the link in the scam text message”.
Upon clicking the link to download the application the victim should clean the device, as their passwords and online accounts are now at risk from hackers.
It is advisable to perform a factory reset as soon as possible. The process for doing this will vary based on the device manufacturer. Note that if you don’t have backups enabled, you will lose data.
After you set up the device after the reset, it may ask you if you want to restore from a backup. You should avoid restoring from any backups created after you downloaded the app, as they will also be infected.
If you have logged in to any accounts or apps using a password since downloading the app, that account password needs to be changed.
Additionally, if you have used these same passwords for any other accounts, then those passwords also need to be changed. To prevent future attacks, NSCS said users of Android devices, check that Google’s Play Protect service is enabled if your device supports it. Some Huawei devices provide a similar tool to scan devices for viruses. This will ensure that any malware on your device can be detected and removed.
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