Call Today at (919) 424-2000
Researchers with Check Point Software recently released a report on a new strain of Android malware called Gooligan. This malware has compromised more than a million Google accounts, and is expected to effect at least another 13,000 accounts as users continue to download the infected applications responsible.
Gooligan’s origins have been traced back to an app called SnapPea, which was identified as malware a year ago. Since then, it has popped up in dozens of other seemingly-legitimate apps available for download in third party Android stores, which are popular with users searching for a free alternative to paid apps. As these app stores are not controlled by Google, downloading applications through them is firmly discouraged by Google. Only applications downloaded through the Google Play store are scanned for malware or other issues.
Users who bypass the safeguards offered by Google Play are at risk of dangerous malware infections. Gooligan is especially harmful, as it gains access to a user’s entire Google account. These Gooligan-infected apps can also be downloaded to your devices through phishing scams that forward download links to unsuspecting users through text messages, or other mobile messaging services.
A device that has been infected by Gooligan has the ability to grant hackers access to any data stored in the user’s Google Docs, Google Drive, Google Photos, Gmail, and Google Play accounts. The bulk of the infections occurred in Asia (57%), with the Americas coming in a distant but no less alarming second (19%).
Gooligan is able to do more than just steal private data. The malware can take your account and token authentication information, and use it to install adware that generates revenue for the hacker. It can also use your credentials to install app from Google Play and boost their approval rating – which explains why you will sometimes find truly awful apps in the Google Play store with high ratings.
This is believed to be the biggest Google Account breach to date. Google has been made aware of the situation, and has already taken steps to protect their users and improve the security of the Android system overall. Check Point Software provides a tool that will allow you to find out if your account has been compromised. You can check your account here.
Want to learn more about the steps you can take to keep your devices safe from malware? Contact us at info@cspinc.com or (919) 424--2000. We’re the IT professionals businesses in Raleigh trust.
Lance Skipper
Matthew Morman
Always at your service to provide the highest level of quality support to our customers.
Anthony Firth Client Engineer
“I’m passionate about building and fostering relationships, and finding solutions for success.”
Michael Koenig Client Account Manager
“Enabling IT to become an effective and valuable partner by delivering premier customer service and quality IT solutions achieving business goals.”
Jake Parrott Business Development Manager
“Serving the client through IT solutions is my passion. A happy client is a happy me.”
Jason RichardsonClient Engineer
“Striving to provide friendly and quality service to our customers”
Ted Rorabaugh Client Engineer
“I help clients stabilize and grow their IT infrastructure so they can focus on growing their core business.”
Josh Wilshire Systems Engineer Team Lead
“Providing courteous, quality IT service for our customers.”
Rich Yoest Rapid Response Team Supervisor
“Striving to be your trusted adviser and IT teammate in accomplishing all your business goals”
Brandan Bishop Client Account Manager
“I strive to provide the highest level of quality service to our customers.”
Tommy Williams Sr. Hardware Engineer
“I’m driven by the steadfast belief that technology must serve as a business enabler. This mantra has driven 21
Years of successful partnerships.”
Stephen Riddick VP Sales & Marketing
“CSP doesn’t succeed unless your company succeeds.”
Stephen Allen Inventory Manager
“Through my intuition and genuine concern to help others I have built long-lasting relationships with our customers, co-workers and business partners.”
Scott Forbes VP Support Services
“Every day, I work with clients to help plan the future of their businesses.”
Michael Bowman vCIO
“Your IT problems become our IT solutions.”
Mark McLemore Project Engineer
“Managing internal and external operations to ensure that CSP provides quality and reliable customer service .”
Margie Figueroa Business Manager
“Helping customers get the most out of their IT Infrastructure.”
Marc Gillet Project Engineer
“Providing quality internal and externals financial support to our customers and accounting support to CSP.”
Katie Steiglitz Accounting Administrator
“Your satisfaction is our #1 priority.”
Heather Moore Project Manager
“Some call me the CEO. I call myself the Cheerleader for an awesome team!”
William B. Riddick Founder & CEO
“CSP is here to assist you with your IT needs.”
Beth Wylie Inside Sales Manager
On What Questions You Need To Ask Before Signing Any Agreement.
CSP, Inc.
1310 Nowell Road
Raleigh, NC 27607
(919) 424-- 2000
Receive email updates and informative marketing materials by subscribing to our newsletter.