First uncovered in July 2020, the malware - also known as TangleBot - is capable of reading sensitive text messages, keeping tabs on the buttons you press, taking screenshots and recording phone calls to ultimately get hold of your bank account details.
This latest version goes a step further, with the ability to display a full-screen overlay, according to cybersecurity firm Cleary. Doing so shows a black screen fooling victims into thinking their device is powered off when actually hackers could be getting to work.Android owners warned over horrifying attack that locks them out of their phone
"While the exact purpose remains under investigation, this functionality presents a potential threat: by obscuring the underlying screen content, the attacker can use this overlay to mask other malicious activities," Cleary explained.Hackers have come up with the sneaky idea of requesting fewer but more essential permissions."Minimising the required permissions evades detection and appears more benign, enhancing its ability to operate undetected for extended periods.
These can sometimes appear in "smishing" attacks, which are fake SMS messages designed to trick you into installing something on your phone.Detecting a malicious app before you hit the 'Download' button is easy when you know the signs.Research the developer- this agreement gives permission for the app to take bits of your data, and fake apps often ask for additional data that is not necessary.