Android Malware Infects 5 Million Users Worldwide

A malware campaign aimed at Android smartphones has infected nearly 5 million users worldwide.

Symantec called the malware'Android.Counterclank.' The malware was embedded in 13 different apps from 3 different publishers.  The 13 apps were all free.

The malware didn't use a rebundled tactic. This tactic involves repackaging a legitimate app with malware and posting it on the Android Marketplace. The attacker then hopes customers will mistake the app as the real one.

The malware was suspected to be downloaded by nearly 5 million users. The malware collects information such as the Android ID, IMEI, IMSI, MAC address, and the SIM serial number. The malware also changes the browser so the homepage is different.

The malware apps were shut down on Friday, 27th 2012.