A new kind of phone malware is sneaking onto users’ phones by impersonating an app for a popular streaming service. It’s called FlixOnline. Security experts at Checkpoint discovered this tricky worm. Here’s what it looks like in the Google Play Store.
Here’s what the actual Netflix app looks like:
The fake FlixOnline service promises users free access to Netflix programming all over the world. Here was the claim:
“2 Months of Netflix Premium Free at no cost For REASON OF QUARANTINE (CORONA VIRUS)* Get 2 Months of Netflix Premium Free anywhere in the world for 60 days. Get it now HERE.”
What it actually does is deploy malware on your phone. The malware steals data from WhatsApp messaging accounts and is also capable of sending messages containing malware to your contacts. These creeps can also blackmail people by threatening to make private information or photos public.
Once installed, the app automatically hides its icon to make it more difficult for you to find and remove. If you’ve installed this program, immediately go to your app manager in settings and remove it. If you have a phone security app installed, run it. If you don’t have a phone security app, think about installing one.
I always advise people to use the app store for your phone to avoid fake apps, but sometimes apps slip through the cracks. It’s also important to make sure you’re installing the legitimate app for the services you want. Be suspicious of great offers for paid services.
Instead of following links, open up a new browser tab and head to the website for the product you want. Any legitimate offers will be displayed there.