Cyber experts warn of a new Android virus that steals cryptocurrency

Cyber experts have warned of a large-scale scheme to distribute infected Android smartphones sold at discounted prices, but with malware pre-installed. The malware in question is the Triada Trojan, one of the most dangerous cyber threats for Android, which provides almost complete control over the device.

This trojan is embedded in the firmware of a smartphone before the device reaches the end user. It is capable of stealing cryptocurrency by changing wallet addresses in transactions, intercepting messages, including two-factor authentication, and accessing accounts in messengers and financial applications.

According to experts, the attackers have already managed to transfer at least $ 270,000 in various cryptocurrencies, but the actual amount may be much higher. Hackers pay special attention to anonymous assets, including the Monero cryptocurrency.

The study found more than 2,600 confirmed cases of infected devices in different countries, most of which are in Russia. Some online sellers do not even suspect that they are selling dangerous gadgets, as the malware is probably embedded at one stage of the production or logistics chain.

Triada was first detected back in 2016, but it still remains one of the most complex and sophisticated threats. In addition to it, analysts have also recorded the emergence of new types of malware, such as programs that mimic the interface of crypto wallets or Trojans that infiltrate Chrome browser extensions.

Experts recommend purchasing mobile devices only from trusted sellers and installing reliable anti-virus software immediately after purchase. In the context of growing interest in cryptocurrencies, the threat from mobile trojans is becoming more and more serious.