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DroidLock is a new ransomware that immobilises Android screens and siphons banking information via counterfeit apps. It is capable of transforming phones into surveillance devices without encrypting data.
It’s somewhat frightening to consider the extent of our lives that are stored on our phones. Our emails, our texts, our pictures, our schedule entries, our financial details, our social interactions, and beyond. This indicates that a person with access to your phone can learn a great deal about you. It is concerning that sophisticated and intricate ransomware such as DroidLock is circulating and targeting Android devices.
How DroidLock Ransomware Works
Unlike conventional ransomware, which encrypts files, DroidLock ransomware employs an alternative method. The malware propagates via phishing websites that appear to be authentic applications from telecom firms or reputable brands. After installation, the malicious application seeks Accessibility and Device Admin permissions, granting attackers total access to your device.
Image source: cooliotech.com
Rather than encrypting your files like conventional ransomware, DroidLock ransomware targets screen overlays and administrative misuse. Intruders can freeze your screen, modify your PIN, erase your data, or even activate VNC remote access to monitor you. Victims receive emails requesting ransom payment within 24 hours, warning of irreversible data loss.
Moreover, the malware takes login details from banking applications and monitors your screen to obtain sensitive data such as one-time passwords. Intruders can monitor your camera, silence calls, or remotely reset your device, effectively transforming your phone into a spying instrument.
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How to Protect Your Device Against DroidLock
The positive aspect is that there are measures you can implement to safeguard yourself. Initially, ensure that you download applications exclusively from the Google Play Store. Before installing any application, review developer feedback and thoroughly assess the permissions being requested. Exercise particular caution when using any app that requests accessibility permissions. This is due to accessibility permissions granting apps significant authority over your device.
Additionally, always ensure your Android operating system is up to date, since newer releases contain security updates. These security updates typically address bugs and seal vulnerabilities that malware could exploit.
Finally, refrain from clicking on dubious links received via messaging apps or email, and avoid downloading APKs from unreliable sources. For companies, the risk is even greater as hacked devices can capture corporate OTPs or erase work-related information. Although these measures may not guarantee complete protection against malware, they are the fundamentals. The key measures to safeguard your devices is by exclusively downloading from the Google Play Store, reviewing app permissions, and ensuring your device is up to date.
