New virus present in applications has already infected more than 10,000 devices

Digital threats seem to have become more active during the pandemic period. There are several viruses that have spread through technological devices. Incidentally, with the spread of smartphones, it has become even easier to come into contact with malware. Many are camouflaged in ads and apps on play store, for example.

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One of these new threats is keeping Android developers up at night. FlyTrap, as it is called, has infected over 10,000 devices in 144 different countries. It spreads quickly and unobtrusively.

This malware (virus) aims to steal information from users. The purpose of FlyTrap is to collect sensitive data such as social media logins.

Hackers often hijack social media accounts and send phishing links. The message is forwarded to the victim's contacts via DMs or posts.

Even the links can hide other, even more harmful, viruses. It is possible for some of the secondary malware to steal banking information, for example.

Viruses are found in fake apps

Researchers at zLabs claim that FlyTrap was created by criminals at a base in Vietnam. One of the most common ways the virus spreads is through the Play Store on Android devices.

Fake apps can carry malware and infect devices. Likewise, hackers also use misleading advertisements. Through flashy ads, victims end up falling for the scam and downloading malware.

When clicking on the fake link, the user needs to log in to Facebook, for example. Just enter the data to fall victim to cybercriminals. Personal data begins to be collected and the virus quickly spreads across the network.

The big problem is in differentiating infected links from safe links. Hackers are able to use seemingly trustworthy URLs. So, there is little care when it comes to protecting.

See how to prevent yourself against FlyTrap

Google itself has already removed the infected apps from the Play Store. However, the virus still continues to spread through advertisements and on social media.

Some tips can help users protect themselves, such as:

1. Install and keep up to date a good antivirus on your device;
2. Scan files for download from app stores;
3. Do not log in to social networks lightly and unnecessarily;
4. Avoid downloading unknown and/or dubious applications;
5. Do not provide your login details for third party links;
6. Make sure the URL destination links to an official website.