Malicious Android app chastises user as it steals data
02 Apr 2011
According to Symantec, a malicious Android app masquerading as a free version of a legitimate application software steals data and sends spam text messages along with a warning chastising the user for trying to get around paying for the actual app.
The app called `Walk and Text' is available on several file-sharing sites in North America and Asia that are known as clearinghouses for pirated software.
The legitimate app also goes by the same name and is available on the Android Market for $1.53. The app lets people see what is in front of them as they text while walking.
The fake app is labeled as version 1.3.7, which does not exist yet, Symantec says in a blog post.
After being downloaded and run, the fake software, which Symantech has dubbed `Android.Walkinwat' displays a dialogue box.
The dialogue box indicates that the app is in the process of being compromised or cracked, ostensibly to scare the person who thinks they are getting the legitimate app for free.
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