The Mandrake program remained undetected for two full years, and the apps attracted more than 32,000 installs before they were removed, according to data provided by Google to BleepingComputer.
News24 has gathered information about the “spy virus” and what you can do if you are affected.
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What is “Mandrake”?
Mandrake is an elaborate virus tool that takes over the user’s device in order to collect data about the device and its users. The attacker is also allowed to record the screen, take screenshots and install apps.
According to the data security company Kaspersky is the Mandrake variant circulating a newer variant than the one first discovered in 2016, and is characterized by advanced techniques designed to bypass Google Play’s security controls.
How do I know if my phone has been affected?
So far, five apps with the malicious code have been identified, writes Kaspersky. The number of downloads applies to the period 2022-2024.
If you have downloaded any of the above apps in the last two years, there is a risk that your device has been affected by the spy virus, according to Kaspersky.
But you who live in Sweden can rest easy: according to the source, most of the downloads come from countries such as Canada, Germany, Italy, Spain and Great Britain.
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Google: “Here’s what you can do to protect yourself”
To the technical side BleepingComputer Google employees reveal some advice that users should always keep in mind when navigating the app stores:
The latter service scans your apps for malicious behavior and is automatically turned on, but if you want to double-check just in case, follow these steps:
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