Android owners warned about hacker app that steals cryptocurrency

A hacker application developed on the basis of SharkBot software has reappeared in the Google Play app store, putting users' cryptocurrency wallets at risk.

As it became known, an updated version of the pseudo-application Mister Phone Cleaner, which allegedly removes unnecessary programs and garbage from a mobile phone, is available for download in the Android app store. The program, created by hackers from SharkBot, can steal cookies when you log in to your account and bypass security checks. It is interesting that the fraudulent application from SharkBot was first detected in October 2021, but now the developers have improved the program and presented a new version.

The warning about the new version of the malware in the app was published by security analyst Alberto Segura. According to Segura, the new version of Mister Phone Cleaner was discovered on August 22. The application’s capabilities include data theft, SMS interception, and access to remote control over the device. The ultimate goal of such manipulations is to initiate money transfers from compromised devices using automatic transfer systems (ATS) technology to bypass multi-factor authentication mechanisms.

In addition to stealing funds from compromised devices, hackers can also conduct covert cryptocurrency mining. In late August, the Nitrokod malware was reported to have been operating under the guise of popular free applications such as Google Translate, YouTube Music, and Microsoft Translator. The hackers installed hidden mining tools in clone apps and mined cryptocurrency without the knowledge of device owners.