Android Phones Threatened By ‘Dendroid’ Virus

Indian cyber intelligence cell warns against the virus that can completely take over Android phones and tablets

Android users in India better watch out, as a deadly virus called Dendroid, incorporated with complete command and control infrastructure, has been detected by the Computer Emergency Response Team of India, CERT-In.

Bearing a striking name resemblance to ‘Android’, the Dendroid Toolkit enables the creation of malicious applications that can cause serious harm to Android-based smartphones and tablets.

The malware is created by modifying the required permissions by any clean APK (Android Application Package) with the Dendroid RAT (Remote Access Toolkit) functionality that allows extensive control of the infected devices, as explained by CERT-In officials.

Once downloaded, and subsequently activated, this virus can take over your device and remotely control it, completely owning it in the process.

The implications of this are staggering, as the virus can now be used to perform a variety of activities such as dialling numbers, opening webpages, recording calls, SMS interception, clicking pictures and the list goes on.

What’s worse is that the Denroid virus features certain anti-emulation codes that help it evade detection by Google Play Store’s security system! This paves the way for ‘trojanised’ applications to enter the Store undetected, only to be downloaded by unsuspecting users.

Little wonder then, that the creator of Dendroid is charging USD 300 for the toolkit.

However, there are certain steps that one can take to safeguard themselves against this threat, as advised by CERT-In officials.

For starters, avoid downloading any application that comes from an untrusted source, irrespective of how appealing it may seem. Ensure that your device is protected by an antivirus software and run frequent system scans. Further, keep tabs on your overall data usage as well your mobile bill.

Originally published at Chip-Monks.