Promon security researchers have found proof of a dangerous Android vulnerability, dubbed ‘StrandHogg’, that allows real-life malware to pose as legitimate apps, with users unaware they are being targeted.
What's the impact?
- All versions of Android affected, incl. Android 10*
- All top 500 most popular apps are at risk*
- Real-life malware is exploiting the vulnerability
- 36 malicious apps exploiting the vulnerability was identified*
- The vulnerability can be exploited without root access
The vulnerability makes it possible for a malicious app to ask for permissions while pretending to be the legitimate app. An attacker can ask for access to any permission, including SMS, photos, microphone, and GPS, allowing them to read messages, view photos, eavesdrop, and track the victim’s movements. The attack can be designed to request permissions which would be natural for different targeted apps to request, in turn lowering suspicion from victims. Users are unaware that they are giving permission to the hacker and not the authentic app they believe they are using.