You might think that using your fingerprint or face to unlock your phone is more secure than using your PIN.
But you may be wrong. Hackers have developed sophisticated Android malware that can disable your biometric security and steal your PIN and data.
What is Chameleon Android Banking Malware?
The malware is known as the Chameleon Android banking trojan. It was first detected earlier this year. Trojans can mimic legitimate apps and trick you into granting permissions. Once it has access to your device, it can monitor your activity and intercept your credentials.
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How does malware bypass the Restricted Settings feature?
Malware can also bypass security measures introduced in Android 13. This security measure, called the “Restricted Settings feature,” allows you to control which apps can access certain settings and features on your device. This feature was supposed to prevent hackers from using the Restricted Settings feature to take over your device. According to BleepingComputer, malware can use a clever technique to trick you into allowing you to use the restricted settings feature without your consent. This means that malware can take control of your device and even disable your fingerprint or face scan.
How does malware steal your money?
The malware may then display a fake lock screen and ask you to enter your PIN. If you do this, the malware will capture your PIN and unlock your device. After this it can access your banking apps and other sensitive information. It can also send money to hackers’ accounts or buy goods online without your knowledge.
Front image of an Android (Curt “Cyberguy” Knutson)
Stealthy malware may ask you to change your accessibility settings and force you to input your PIN
This new and improved version of the Chameleon Android banking trojan will open an HTML page asking for your permission to change your accessibility settings. This will abuse your access features until your phone forces you to enter your PIN.
Maybe you too may not have noticed it. Chameleon uses a platform called Zombiebinder to attach malware to innocent apps. It can also schedule tasks. So once a hacker knows your schedule, they can run trojans when your phone is normally idle.
Woman with android in hand (Curt “Cyberguy” Knutson)
MORE: This stealthy Android malware can steal your money and invade your privacy
How to protect your Android
1) The biggest way to keep yourself safe Using only legitimate app stores, such as Google Play Store, Amazon App Store, or Samsung Galaxy Store. Loading apps directly from the web, or sideloading, presents a host of security risks. You usually can’t see everything that’s in a file, and it’s easier for hackers to hide malware.
2) Google is constantly working on ways to reduce such threats. make sure you are Using the latest version Of Android.
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3) you should Is good antivirus software installed, One of the most important steps to keep your Android safe from the Chameleon Banking Trojan and other malware is to install and update reliable antivirus software. Good antivirus software actively running on your device will alert you about any malware in your system, warn you against clicking on any malicious links in phishing emails and ultimately protect you from getting hacked. find my review Here’s all about the best antivirus protection,
What should you do if your data is compromised?
If malware has already invaded your device, you should take immediate action to minimize the damage and secure your device. Here are some steps you can follow:
Samsung Cellphone (Curt “Cyberguy” Knutson)
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change your password
Chameleon Banking Trojan may use a keylogger to record your passwords when you type them on your Android device. This can give hackers access to your online accounts and your personal or financial information. To prevent this, you should change the passwords of all your important accounts as soon as possible. However, you should not do this on your infected device, as the hacker can see your new passwords. Instead, you should use another device, such as your laptop or desktop, to change your passwords. Make sure you use strong and unique passwords that are difficult to guess or break. You can also use a password manager To create and store your passwords securely.
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Monitor your accounts and transactions
You should regularly check your online accounts and transactions for suspicious or unauthorized activity. If you notice anything unusual, report it to the service provider or authorities as soon as possible. you should also review To view your credit report and score prompts identity theft Or fraud.
Use identity theft protection
The Chameleon banking trojan can capture everything you type on your Android device, including your personal and financial information. Hackers can use this information to create fake accounts in your name, access your existing accounts, and pretend that you are online. This can cause serious damage to your identity and credit score.
To avoid this risk, you should use identity theft protection services. These services can track your personal information, such as your home title, Social Security Number (SSN), phone number, and email address, and notify you if any suspicious activity is detected. They can also help you freeze your bank and credit card accounts to prevent hackers from using them. Read more of me review Here are the best identity theft protection services available.
Contact your bank and credit card companies
If hackers have obtained your bank or credit card information, they can use it to make purchases or withdrawals without your consent. You should contact your bank and credit card companies and inform them of the situation. They can help you freeze or cancel your card, dispute any fraudulent charges, and issue new cards for you.
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Alert your contacts
If hackers have access to your email or social media accounts, they can use them to send spam or phishing messages to your contacts. They may also impersonate you and ask for money or personal information. You should alert your contacts and warn them not to open or respond to any of your messages that appear suspicious or unusual.
Restore your device to factory settings
If you want to ensure that your device is completely free of any malware or spyware, you can restore it factory settings, This will erase all your data and settings and reinstall the original Android version. you should do back up Restore your important data before doing this, and restore it only from a trusted source.
MORE: 10 signs that your identity has been compromised
Kurt’s highlights
While threats like chameleon banking malware attacks are scary, it’s important to remember that you can protect yourself. Apart from using the official app store, antivirus software, and with the latest version of Android, you should avoid downloading any apps that are not available on trusted platforms. Sideloading apps from unknown sources can expose your device to malware and hackers. You should never risk your Android security by sideloading apps.
Have you or someone you know encountered an issue with banking malware on their Android device? We are interested in hearing about your experiences and the precautions you have taken to protect your personal information. Share your story by writing to us cyberguy.com/contact,
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Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutson is an award-winning tech journalist with a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better through his contributions to Fox News and Fox Business in the mornings on “Fox & Friends.” Have any technical questions? Receive Kurt’s CyberGuy newsletter, share your voice, story idea or comment on CyberGuy.com.