Fakesky Malware

The Fakesky Malware is a threat that targets Android devices, and which security analysts first identified over three years ago – in 2017. Initially, the activity of the Fakesky Malware was focused on users located in Japan and South Korea. However, over time, the Fakesky Malware campaigns expanded and began targeting users from all around the globe. Cybersecurity researchers have identified copies of the Fakesky Malware in the United States, Germany, Switzerland, France, Taiwan, China and more. It would appear that the Fakesky Malware is being distributed via bogus copies of popular applications hosted on dodgy platforms, as well as fake text messages.

When the Fakesky Malware compromises the targeted Android device, it will begin the attack by distributing phishing text messages to every individual who is immediately present on the contacts list of the victim. The individuals in question would be urged to download an APK (Android Package), which carries the Fakesky Malware payload. This is a very quick and clever way to expand the reach of a threat. This propagation technique is so successful that the targeted users are likely to trust a text message coming from someone they know.

The Fakesky Malware is able to collect a wide variety of files and data from the infected host. This threat can obtain data regarding the device’s hardware and software, as well as mobile network information, and even the victim’s banking details. Most contemporary banking applications use 2FA (Two-Factor Authentication) to help ensure the safety of their customers. However, this may prove to be rather easy to bypass for the Fakesky Malware. This is due to the fact that the Fakesky Malware is capable of intercepting the text messages of the victim. This enables the Fakesky Malware to carry out unauthorized financial transactions and generate revenue off the backs of unsuspecting users.

It is likely that the authors of the Fakesky Malware originate from China, who have launched similar campaigns previously. It is advisable to invest in a genuine anti-malware application that will not allow threats like the Fakesky Malware on your Android device.