DUBLIN: The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) warns Android mobile phone users to be wary of cyber criminals. The security center has warned that smartphones in Ireland could be hacked using spyware software called Flubot.
Criminals use this malicious software to steal sensitive data, including passwords and financial information. Mobile operators Three, Vodafone and Eir have also warned about the scam. Companies advised their customers not to click on any of the fake links and to delete the related messages from their phones.
How scammers ‘attack’
The NCSC explains that hackers generally send a text message containing a link asking users to click on to access details on a missed package delivery. This link may lead to a fake website that looks similar to the site of the legitimate delivery company DHL and others. The victim will be asked to download two files containing malicious code from this site. They will next be prompted to allow an untrusted app to download onto their phone.
If customers receive such a message, the security center advises them not to click on the link and to delete the message. People who are expecting a delivery are advised to check its status on the company’s official website. According to the NCSC, the current issue only affects Android phones and not Apple devices.
What if you accidentally click on a link?
The NCSC also explains how to get away if you accidentally click on such fake spy links. If you clicked on the link and installed the app, you need do a factory reset on your smartphone. If you have backups of your data, it is best not to restore any backups created after the malicious software was installed.
The NCSC also advises those who have installed the application to reset their account passwords. If similar passwords are used on other accounts, they must be changed as well.
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