Report: Android Has Become the Ultimate Malware Platform

It is very apparent that mobile devices let hackers bridge the gap from infection to monetization more effectively than on any other device type. Sure, every frequent web user has seen rather silly threats that the PC has been infected by some ominous malware and that only a $29 or $49 payment for a certain software will get rid of the malware. However, compared to mobile threats, this is a rather complex approach and has way too many variables that can affect the outcome.

According to AVG's Q2 Threat report, Android is quickly becoming a popular target for hackers. Their malware, often attached to popular and seemingly non-suspicious applications in slightly altered packages, attack Android's Linux kernel and replace code that enables the hacker to gain full control over a phone. Called DKFBootkits, the goal may not only be to extract private information, but to incur some small charges, for example via SMS, the owner is unlikely to investigate.

AVG notes that "quick-fingered" people may be lured into accepting notifications they may not even understand. "Mobile connected devices are sitting ducks when it comes to this type of crime as they are already linked to a payment method that requires no additional approval or authentication," AVG said. Android is apparently prime target for rooting a mobile device. AVG did not reveal exact numbers of Android's share in the attacks. 

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