New smartphones come with preinstalled useful apps which can be quite handy for you. However, smartphones might also come with some pre-installed malware.
Even if you're vigilant about avoiding malicious apps, there's nothing you can do if your phone comes with built-in malware. This is the case happened with hundreds of different smartphones, according to Avast Threat Labs. This is one of the biggest malware related scandals associated to Android devices and might affect a lot more users.
The malware was found installed mostly on those devices which not certified by Google, according to security researchers. These include devices from manufacturers such as ZTE, Archos and myPhone. Users with infected devices can see annoying ads and other problems. As the malware is installed on a firmware level, it's extremely difficult to remove.
There is a variety the Android malware APKs, but they work on the same principle. The infected apps, called droppers, are installed in a secret way in a list of system applications inside the settings. They download a small file known as manifest that informs them which other files to get.
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The infected apps then download those and install an APK from a URL found in the manifest, and use a standard Android command to install it. Finally, the dropper initiates the payload service. The payload APK can easily detect any Antivirus software.
The top countries affected by this pre-installed malware are Russia, Italy, Germany, France and UK. Avast managed to disable the dropper server through takedown requests, but the server was quickly restored using another provider. The malware servers are still operating and many users have complained about ads.
According to Avast, Google has taken steps to reduce the malicious capabilities of many APKs on several devices using internally developed techniques.
Another solution is to use an effective mobile Antivirus program that can uninstall the payload appropriately. But, you'll have to manually go into your settings to disable the infected apps.
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Tips to Prevent virus and malware from Infecting Your System:
- Enable your popup blocker: Pop-ups and ads on the websites are the most adoptable tactic used by cybercriminals or developers with the core intention to spread malicious programs.
So, avoid clicking uncertain sites, software offers, pop-ups etc. and Install a powerful ad- blocker for Chrome, Mozilla, and IE
- Keep your Windows Updated: To avoid such infections, we recommend that you should always keep your system updated through automatic windows update.By doing this you can keep your device free from virus.According to the survey, outdated/older versions of Windows operating system are an easy target.
- Third-party installation: Try to avoid freeware download websites as they usually install bundled of software with any installer or stub file.
- Regular Backup: Regular and periodical backup helps you to keep your data safe in case the system is infected by any kind of virus or any other infection.Thus always backup important files regularly on a cloud drive or an external hard drive.
- Always have an Anti-Virus: Precaution is better than cure. We recommend that you install an antivirus like ITL Total Security or a good Malware Removal Tool like Download Virus RemovalTool
