What is malware?
Kurt ‘CyberGuy’ Knutsson explains how to protect yourself from malware and ransomware.
Another day, another malware threat trying to retrieve your data.
Well, brace yourself. Because a virus that has been around for a while is getting worse.
It’s called XLoader and it tracks photos and texts on your Android device. Yes, that’s right.
Your precious memories and messages are at risk of being stolen by this malicious software.
android mobile phone. (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
What is malware?
Malware is technically software designed to destroy the system of its intended target. Malware allows the person or entity behind the attack to access your data, leak sensitive information, block you, and control other aspects of your privacy and security.
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What is XLoader malware stock?
According to McAfee, the XLoader malware (also known as MoqHao) has been around since 2015 and targets Android users in the US, Europe, and Asia. Once installed on your device (its capabilities have improved significantly), it runs in the background and captures sensitive data such as photos, text messages, contact lists, and hardware details.
Hacker typing on laptop. (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutsson)
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How does XLoader get into my device?
One of the reasons why XLoader is such a big threat is because, unlike previous strains and other malware, it can infiltrate devices much more easily than before. Malware typically enters your device through the following routes: Phishing scam. However, these traditional phishing scams may be less effective because people are more skeptical about opening or clicking on suspicious files or links, and because there are integrated apps that alert you about these files. Some things are harder, but XLoader is smarter.
First, you receive a text from an unknown sender.
Like regular malware, XLoader is often spread through malicious links sent via text messages.This is a special type of phishing scam It is known as “smishing”. But scammers know that most people don’t click on texts from people they don’t know. So another way they try to succeed at this is first by accessing a phone number like this: your They have that number in their contacts and are targeting you that way. If you receive a text message from someone you know, you probably don’t have to think twice. After passing this step, XLoader can infiltrate your Android device in two ways:
1: Click the link to download the APK file.
The unsuspecting victim is then shown a link within the text message. This link looks less suspicious than a typical malware link because it is usually shortened and looks legitimate rather than spammy, like a link sent by someone you know.
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If you click this link, you will be prompted to download an Android APK file (Android’s standard file format). This file is the one used to sideload apps outside of the official Google Play Store. Therefore, this method bypasses Google’s security measures and increases the risk of malware infection. This can happen in seconds, and before you know it, the XLoader malware will be installed on your phone once you click “Install.”
Once a malicious APK is downloaded and installed, XLoader automatically launches without any user interaction and runs silently in the background to perform its malicious activities.
2: I started the app myself, but it got tricked by Google Chrome bait
If you want to launch the app directly yourself, we already have an XLoader that impersonates Google Chrome. When you click “Launch”, the XLoader malware displays the familiar Chrome pop-up and first asks if you want to grant permission by clicking “Allow” or “Deny”. When you click “Allow” (thinking you are accessing an “app”), you are unknowingly allowing access to your SMS.
You will then also see a pop-up that says “Choose Chrome to prevent spam”, giving you two options: the default SMS app or Chrome. These decoy pop-ups perfectly replicate Google’s style, giving users a false sense of security that they can be trusted.
Once there, it can retrieve photos, texts, and other sensitive data on your Android, most of the time without your knowledge.
Google Chrome decoy. (McAfee)
6 ways to protect your Android from XLoader and other malware
Now that you know what XLoader is and how it invades your Android device, be careful not to click on unusual links in text messages. If the text came from someone in your contact, contact that person directly (by calling or sending a message in another app) and that they intended to send it to you before clicking Please Confirm. Here are some other ways to protect yourself from XLoader and other malware attempts.
1. Avoid sideloading apps and shortened URLs. Avoid sideloading apps (installing apps from unofficial sources) and clicking shortened URLs in messages, as these are common vectors for malware distribution.
2. Be careful when granting privileges. Be careful when granting permissions to apps. The question is whether your app really needs to access certain device features or data.
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3. Restrict apps installed on your phone. In some cases, having a large number of apps installed on your phone can increase your exposure to malware. These apps can introduce malicious code over time, and the more apps you have to track and update, the more vulnerable your Android is.
4. Only download reputable apps. Additionally, when downloading an app, make sure it comes from a trusted and legitimate developer. Check reviews and do your research before clicking “Install”.
5. Don’t ignore software updates. Your phone has a way of keeping itself safe. Software and security updates. Please remember to do this.
6. Install good antivirus software on all your devices. The best way to protect yourself from malware like this Xloader virus is to install antivirus protection on all your devices. Installing antivirus software on your device will ensure that you are prevented from clicking on malicious links that can install malware on your device and allow hackers to access your personal information. Check out my picks for the best antivirus protection products of 2024 for your Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.
Cart important points
Unfortunately, malware outbreaks are inevitable. As we learn more about how to prevent these threats, the malware itself becomes more sophisticated, and the hackers who create them are always looking for ways to outwit us. This new XLoader is just one example. Also, while he’s currently targeting Android users, it’s only a matter of time before he starts targeting Macs and other devices.
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Therefore, the best way to protect yourself is to stay up to date with the latest cybersecurity trends and ensure your devices have adequate antivirus protection. Additionally, continue to follow best practices to protect yourself from suspicious links and downloads.
How frustrated have you been lately with malware like XLoader and other types of viruses trying to steal your data? Should we be doing more to stop these criminals? Email us at please let me know. Cyberguy.com/Contact
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