Smart phones are recently being invaded by a malware that fakes a shut down while exploring your files, making outgoing calls and sending text messages without your consent. It could even take your photos and change the setting of your apps without you knowing it.
The bug which was discovered by the Mobile Malware Research Team of AVG, allegedly shuts down your phone but actually just puts it into a low power state. Even though the shut down animation is appearing, the smart phone is still working. According to RT, AVG claimed that it infects devices that run on Android versions under 5.0. The malware incident started in China through the local official Android app stores.
Before the PowerOffHijack malware shuts down, a dialogue box would appear. The box would carry three options which are namely the Power Off, Airplane Mode, and Mute. Often times, users would choose the option to Power Off thus giving access to the malware to the root permission. This is then when the bug would invade your smart phone.
There had been speculations that the NSA (National Security Agency) is responsible for this malware as a form of their citizen spying scheme. Edward Snowden, a former CIA employee claimed that the NSA can bug cell phones even when they are not turned on. This would allow them to eavesdrop to a smart phone's contact details and other files. This form of bug has been used by many government agencies like the FBI in 2006 to listen to conversations and finding persons that are wanted by the law.
However, there are ways to protect your smart phone's privacy. The most common procedure would be to ensure that your phone shut down properly. And how do you do this? Simply remove the batteries before the virus could spread throughout your phone.
Join the Conversation