In September 2024, Kaspersky reported a widespread attack involving the Necro Trojan, which has potentially infected around 11 million Android devices globally. This sophisticated malware primarily targets users downloading modified versions of popular applications such as Spotify, WhatsApp, and Minecraft, as well as certain apps available on Google Play.
The Necro Trojan is a type of malware that acts as a loader, meaning it can download and execute additional malicious components once it infiltrates a device. Initially discovered in 2019, the Trojan has evolved, integrating advanced features that enhance its evasion techniques and capabilities. The Trojan cleverly hides its malicious payload within seemingly innocuous images, making it difficult to detect using traditional security methods. This technique allows the malware to bypass standard security checks.
Once activated, the Necro loader can:
The Necro Trojan has been found embedded in various applications, both from unofficial sources and Google Play.
To effectively guard against the Necro Trojan and similar threats, users are advised to take the following actions