Malicious software disguised as legitimate apps for Android devices has seized control of more than one million Google accounts since August.
The ‘Gooligan’ strain has infected as many as 1.3 million Android phones since August, completely prizing the devices open and stealing the tokens users are given to verify they are authorized to access their accounts.
It’s main aim is to force users into downloading apps as part of a huge advertising scheme, making as much as $320,000 a month.
The software—called Gooligan—was found in 86 fraudulent apps and has been infecting about 13,000 Android devices a day.
“We appreciate Check Point’s partnership as we’ve worked together to understand and take action on these issues,” a Google spokesman said in an emailed statement.
Gooligan is a variant of malicious software known as Ghost Push, which has been giving Android users problems for two years.
Users wondering if their devices have been compromised can visit Check Point’s site for a mobile-phone checkup and to learn more.
Featured Image: Twitter
