Android Gets Knocked Down By Malware Once Again

Android users beware! Many security firms including Lookout have issued warnings to Android phone owners about a new Trojan plaguing the internet. This Trojan infects your phone with the help of unsafe websites. According to the reports, the new Trojan makes it way to the phone system by fooling the user to install a new update for their operating system. So if you are browsing the internet and are suddenly asked to update your Android version, you must not accept the offer.

In order to find out what operating system version you have, you can easily go to the settings of your phone and access the software page there. This will tell you the current version of Android you have installed on your phone. The next step you should take is to confirm with your manufacturer about possible updates for the phone. The last update of the operating system for your particular hand set should be available on your manufacturer’s website. Do not attempt to install an update using means you do not know about.

The Trojan gets itself embedded into compromised websites and without warning the user downloads itself on the system. On your phone, this new download file will appear as Update.apk. If a user decides to run the file, the phone gets infected. The easiest way to avoid the Trojan is to stay away from websites that may sound dodgy. Security firm Lookout has confirmed that the number of infected sites is still very low, so you shouldn’t always face this Trojan.

The Trojan after installing itself on the system can gain access to your private information such as photos, text messages and emails. It can also record passwords and other security credentials. Users are advised to delete any file that has the name ‘Update.apk’. You can also install antivirus software on your Android system to keep the Trojan from harming your phone.

This is not the first time Android has seen an attack from malware. Earlier this year, Android apps were affected by the Android.Counterclank virus. More malware had attacked the operating system during February 2012. Users are warned to always keep their phone protected from viruses by installing security software. With a new virus on the loose, it is more important than ever to update your phone with security software.