Two More Spyware Programs Identified on Android Devices

  • Feb 28, 2011
On the heels of Hong Tou Tou, two more spyware programs on Android devices have been captured by NetQin Mobile Inc. Named "SW.SecurePhone" and "SW.Qieting," the spyware may create serious privacy leaks.

Once installed, SW.SecurePhone will run in the background without any icon displayed, monitoring the phone and collecting data to save on the SD card. The data, including messages, call logs, phone location, recorded sounds around the phone and pictures in the phone, will then be uploaded to a remote server every 20 minutes. This will compromise privacy as well as create internet traffic. This spyware is mainly distributed in the U.S through Internet downloads.

SW.Qieting automatically forwards messages received to a monitoring phone without the user's awareness. Similarly, there is no icon displayed after installation, making it difficult for the user to be aware of the application’s installation.

More and more mobile threats to the Android are being discovered. The typical ones include Geinimi identified by NetQin last November and Hong Tou Tou last week. Because of this, users should be cautious when using their Android devices, especially when downloading applications from the Web.

To stay safe:
  • Download applications from trusted sources and check reviews, ratings and developer information before downloading.
  • Never blindly accept application requests. Closely monitor permissions requested by any application; an application should not request to do more than what it offers in its official list of features.
  • Be on alert for unusual fees, as this may be a sign that your phone is infected.
  • Install a trusted security application to protect your phone from security threats.


Featured

  • Ransomware Attacks Rise for the First Time in Six Months

    Ransomware attacks have risen for the first time in six months, increasing by 28% month-on-month to 421 attacks. While overall attack volume remained below 500, the uptick may signal a renewed escalation heading into the year’s most active period for cyber criminals. Read Now

  • Report: 47 Percent of Security Service Providers Are Not Yet Using AI or Automation Tools

    Trackforce, a provider of security workforce management platforms, today announced the launch of its 2025 Physical Security Operations Benchmark Report, an industry-first study that benchmarks both private security service providers and corporate security teams side by side. Based on a survey of over 300 security professionals across the globe, the report provides a comprehensive look at the state of physical security operations. Read Now

    • Guard Services

  • Identity Governance at the Crossroads of Complexity and Scale

    Modern enterprises are grappling with an increasing number of identities, both human and machine, across an ever-growing number of systems. They must also deal with increased operational demands, including faster onboarding, more scalable models, and tighter security enforcement. Navigating these ever-growing challenges with speed and accuracy requires a new approach to identity governance that is built for the future enterprise. Read Now

  • Eagle Eye Networks Launches AI Camera Gun Detection

    Eagle Eye Networks, a provider of cloud video surveillance, recently introduced Eagle Eye Gun Detection, a new layer of protection for schools and businesses that works with existing security cameras and infrastructure. Eagle Eye Networks is the first to build gun detection into its platform. Read Now

  • Report: AI is Supercharging Old-School Cybercriminal Tactics

    AI isn’t just transforming how we work. It’s reshaping how cybercriminals attack, with threat actors exploiting AI to mass produce malicious code loaders, steal browser credentials and accelerate cloud attacks, according to a new report from Elastic. Read Now

Most   Popular

New Products

  • Compact IP Video Intercom

    Viking’s X-205 Series of intercoms provide HD IP video and two-way voice communication - all wrapped up in an attractive compact chassis.

  • HD2055 Modular Barricade

    Delta Scientific’s electric HD2055 modular shallow foundation barricade is tested to ASTM M50/P1 with negative penetration from the vehicle upon impact. With a shallow foundation of only 24 inches, the HD2055 can be installed without worrying about buried power lines and other below grade obstructions. The modular make-up of the barrier also allows you to cover wider roadways by adding additional modules to the system. The HD2055 boasts an Emergency Fast Operation of 1.5 seconds giving the guard ample time to deploy under a high threat situation.

  • Camden CV-7600 High Security Card Readers

    Camden CV-7600 High Security Card Readers

    Camden Door Controls has relaunched its CV-7600 card readers in response to growing market demand for a more secure alternative to standard proximity credentials that can be easily cloned. CV-7600 readers support MIFARE DESFire EV1 & EV2 encryption technology credentials, making them virtually clone-proof and highly secure.