New DroidBot Android banking malware spreads across Europe

New DroidBot Android banking malware spreads across Europe

December 4, 2024 at 01:33PM

A new Android banking malware, ‘DroidBot,’ targets over 77 cryptocurrency and banking apps in Europe. Active since June 2024, it operates as a malware-as-a-service platform, facilitating attacks for affiliates. Key features include keylogging and SMS interception. Users are urged to download apps from Google Play and review permissions carefully.

### Meeting Notes Takeaways on DroidBot Malware

1. **Overview of DroidBot**:
– A new Android banking malware named ‘DroidBot’ targets over 77 cryptocurrency exchanges and banking applications across multiple European countries including the UK, Italy, France, Spain, and Portugal.
– Active since June 2024, the malware operates on a malware-as-a-service (MaaS) model, with a subscription price of $3,000/month.

2. **Affiliates and Operations**:
– At least 17 affiliate groups are utilizing malware builders to customize DroidBot for specific targets.
– Despite lacking sophisticated features, analysis has shown 776 unique infections indicating significant activity in regions like the UK, Italy, France, Turkey, and Germany.
– DroidBot developers, believed to be Turkish, provide comprehensive tools for affiliates, including a control panel and technical support.

3. **Customization and Support**:
– The malware builder allows tailored payloads targeting specific apps, multilingual options, and different C2 server addresses.
– Affiliates receive thorough documentation and support, as well as updates via a dedicated Telegram channel.

4. **Malware Features**:
– Keylogging: Captures every keystroke entered by users.
– Overlaying: Creates fake login pages over legitimate app interfaces.
– SMS Interception: Hijacks SMS, specifically one-time passwords (OTPs) for banking logins.
– Virtual Network Computing (VNC): Allows remote control of infected devices.
– Abuse of Android’s Accessibility Services enables the malware to simulate user actions.

5. **Impersonation Techniques**:
– DroidBot often disguises itself as legitimate apps like Google Chrome, Google Play Store, or ‘Android Security’ to deceive users into installation.

6. **Preventive Measures**:
– Android users are advised to download apps exclusively from Google Play.
– Users should carefully examine permission requests at installation, especially for access to Accessibility Services.
– Ensure Google Play Protect is activated on devices to enhance security against such threats.

7. **Targeted Applications**:
– Notable apps targeted by DroidBot include Binance, KuCoin, BBVA, Unicredit, Santander, Metamask, BNP Paribas, Credit Agricole, Kraken, and Garanti BBVA.

These takeaways summarize the critical aspects of the DroidBot malware and outline recommended actions for users to enhance their security.

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