TECHNOLOGY
Kaspersky unmasks active malicious campaigns targeting Android and iOS users in APAC
September 2, 2022 6:19 p.m.
Global cybersecurity company shares how to secure smartphones from “Anubis” mobile Trojan and the infamous “Roaming Mantis” campaign
With the continued uptick in the adoption of mobile banking in Asia Pacific (APAC), global cybersecurity company Kaspersky warns of more attacks against Android and iOS devices.
Particularly, active monitoring shows the notorious Anubis Trojan now delivers a combination of mobile banking Trojan with ransomware functionalities to its target smartphones.
Mobile banking Trojans are one of the most dangerous species in the malware world.
This type of threat steals money from mobile users’ bank accounts usually by disguising the Trojans as legitimate apps to lure people into installing the malware.
Kaspersky’s elite researcher – Suguru Ishimaru – zeroed in on the mobile threat landscape in APAC to answer: what if there are no smartphones? Sharing the reality that users cannot live without a mobile device, he unmasked the latest malware targeting iOS and Android users in APAC during the company’s 8th Cyber Security Weekend in Phuket, Thailand.
Suguru Ishimaru, Senior Malware Researcher for Global Research and Analysis Team (GReAT) at Kaspersky
Anubis is a mobile banking Trojan targeting Android users as early as 2017. Its worldwide campaigns targeted users from Russia, Turkey, India, China, Colombia, France, Germany, the US, Denmark, and Vietnam.
This malware family continues to be one of the most common mobile bankers, according to Kaspersky’s latest mobile statistics in the second quarter of 2022. In this period, one in 10 (10.48%) of unique Kaspersky users globally who encountered a banking threat have encountered Anubis mobile banking Trojan.
Initial infections are done through multiple ways – legitimate-looking and high-ranking but malicious apps available on Google Play, smishing (phishing messages sent through SMS), and Bian malware, another mobile banking Trojan.
Once in, this infamous mobile banker can do a complete device takeover. It can steal personal information and identity, access private messages and login credentials, record sound, request GPS, disable play protection, lock the device’s screen, and more.
“Anubis is known for compromising hundreds of bank customers per campaign, proving that it’s among the most active malware targeting Android users right now. Our recent findings show that the cybercriminals behind this threat have started implementing ransom functionalities. If this modification proves to be successful, chances are other malicious groups will copy the same technique of stealing data and holding devices hostage. As a result, I expect to see more of such attacks in APAC due to cybercriminals’ strong financial motivation,” says Ishimaru, Senior Malware Researcher for Global Research and Analysis Team (GReAT) at Kaspersky.
The threat against Android and iOS users: Roaming Mantis
Another prolific threat actor targeting mobile banking users, globally and in the APAC region, is Roaming Mantis.
The group carries out malicious campaigns that target Android devices and spreads mobile malware initially via DNS hijacking and currently through smishing.
Kaspersky experts have been tracking its operations since 2018 and detected almost half a million attacks in APAC from 2021 to the first half of 2022.
Most numbers of the malware were blocked from infecting Kaspersky users in Russia, Japan, South Korea, India, and China.
Ishimaru also underlined that while the cybercriminal group is known for targeting Android devices, Roaming Mantis’ recent campaign showed interest in iOS users.
Using the same techniques, the smishing messages targeting iOS users contain a very short description and a URL to a landing page.
If a user clicks on the link and opens the landing page, there are two scenarios: iOS users are redirected to a phishing page imitating the official Apple website, while the Wroba malware is downloaded on Android devices.
If a victim inputs his credentials to the phishing website, it will then proceed to the 2FA (two-factor authentication) phishing website.
This allows the attacker to know the user’s device, credentials, and 2FA codes.
“There is a notion that iOS is a more secure operating system. However, we must take two things into account – the increasing sophistication of mobile bankers’ social engineering techniques and malware arsenal and the possibility for human errors. Remember that both Anubis and Roaming Mantis require user’s participation before they can take over a device. With more than half (63%) of digital payments in APAC doing their financial transactions online through mobile devices, awareness is no longer enough. Protecting our smartphones is a step that everyone should be doing by now,” adds Ishimaru.
Kaspersky expert suggests two layers of protection for smartphones
- Basic security
- Keep phones up-to-date and install the latest patches
- Reboot daily
- Do NOT trust third-party apps and mobileconfig
- NEVER click on links sent through SMS
- Install a security solution like Kaspersky Total Security
- Advanced protection
- Use a VPN to mask your traffic
- Check live network traffic using live Indicator of Compromise (IOCs)
- Use Lockdown Mode for iOS 16 users
TECHNOLOGY
5-star drop-resistant HONOR X6b now available in PH exclusively on Shopee starting this 9.9 for only P5,399!
1:10 p.m. September 7, 2024
Wait there’s more! HONOR X6b has a Piso Sale on September 9 to 11 at exactly 12 midnight!
Leading global smart devices provider, HONOR, finally announced the availability of HONOR X6b exclusively on Shopee Super Shopping Day on September 9 for Php 5,399. And if you get lucky, you can get the HONOR X6b during Piso Sale on 9.9 Flash Sale!
“Durability is now more affordable with HONOR X6b! If you’re eyeing an entry level smartphone that is drop-resistant, long lasting, and efficient with battery capsule, the HONOR X6b is perfect for you! In an exclusive launch with Shopee on 9.9, we are offering exciting deals that kickstart the holiday limbo as early as September!” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.
Putting the HONOR X6b into a durability test, media partners and KOLs witness how the smartphone can withstand impacts at Studio 300, Makati, with HONOR X6b phones being aimed at in bowling, billiards, and soccer. Thanks to its comprehensive 360° protection across all six faces and four corners of the device, certified by SGS with industry-leading 5-Star Drop-Resistant Quality.
LONG LASTING 5200MAH BATTERY AND 35W HONOR SUPERCHARGE
Offering up to two days of light daily usage on a single charge, the HONOR X6b houses a large 5200mAh battery to power the power-efficient MediaTek Helio G85 at the core of the smartphone. The battery is also highly energy-dense at 731wh/L, fitting in the 8.39mm thin chassis that feels just right in the hand. Whether it’s for listening to music or browsing social media, the HONOR X6b stays powered for longer, with up to 26 hours of online streaming or 27 hours of social media engagement.
Moreover, charging is no longer a waiting game with the 35W HONOR SuperCharge technology. Users can activate the Turbo charging mode in a single tap and achieve a 20% charge in just 10 minutes.
MAGIC CAPSULE AND LARGE STORAGE CAPACITY
The HONOR X6b is one of the HONOR devices equipped with the Magic Capsule. The Magic capsule is located at the top of the screen shaped like a “capsule” presenting ongoing tasks, notifications, recording, clock, and more interactions.
The Magic Capsule can shrink into a “little ball” after displaying for some time and can be expanded when checking detailed status of quick operations.
Storage space is abundant in the HONOR X6b, which boasts 256GB of internal memory. This expansive storage can house over 60,000 photos, more than 24,000 songs, or over 200 movies, ensuring that users’ favorite content is always within reach. Enhancing its performance, the HONOR X6b features HONOR RAM Turbo technology, which effectively doubles the available RAM from 6GB to 12GB by utilizing a portion of the flash memory. This innovation allows for smoother multitasking and enhances the user experience.
Check out the HONOR X6b from your Shopee baskets on September 9-11 via livestream at HONOR’s Facebook page and HONOR’s Official Shopee Page and get the smartphone for only 1-peso at midnight! Moreover, the HONOR X6b is also available for only Php 5,999 as an early bird promo with FREE Earbuds II worth Php 1,299.
Don’t worry if you miss the midnight sale and early bird promo, the HONOR X6b is discounted at Php 5,399 on September 9 and during flash sales from September 10 to September 19 exclusively on Shopee. Check it out here https://shopee.ph/product/66540358/28407883555/
For more exciting announcements, check out HONOR Philippines’ social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok Shop: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.
TECHNOLOGY
Tiny pad, mighty fun: Xiaomi launches Redmi Pad SE 8.7
10:44 p.m. September 2, 2024
XIAOMI recently announced the launch of its latest tablet, the Redmi Pad SE 8.7, designed to deliver an immersive theater-like experience in a device that’s super portable.
Its biggest feature is its stunning 8.7-inch display. Enjoy clear and vibrant visuals on the eye-protecting display, which features up to 600 nits of brightness and a 90Hz refresh rate for smooth and seamless scrolling and gaming. The 8.7-inch screen also creates a 5:3 aspect ratio that’s wider than the standard 16:9, making it better for all your favorite content.
The tablet also features comfortable immersion with its low blue light and flicker-free display which reduces eye strain and increases visual comfort. It also has Paper Reading mode to simulate the actual booklike paper experience, while retaining Classic Mode for a typical digital feel.
For a truly theater-like sound, the Redmi Pad SE 8.7 also has Dolby Atmos® technology that delivers rich and detailed sound for a truly cinematic experience. It has 2TB of built-in storage for all your favorite video content from your usual platforms.
The Redmi Pad SE 8.7 also comes with an octa-core MediaTek Helio G85 processor, which ensures seamless and reliable multitasking and gaming, while the 6,650mAh battery provides long-lasting power that lasts up to 25.2 hours when playing video. The battery fills up fast with 18W fast charging support, getting you from 0 to 100% in just 140 minutes.
It also comes in three vibrant colors: Graphite Gray, Aurora Green, and Sky Blue. It’s also slim and lightweight at only 8.8-mm and 373 grams for easy portability.
The Redmi Pad SE 8.7 is now available on Shopee (Xiaomi Global Store) with a special Early Bird Promo until September 4. Get the Redmi Pad SE 8.7 WiFi 4+128GB for P6,399 (down from the SRP of P7,999). The 4+64GB variant is available for a special promo price of P5,399 (from P6,999 SRP).
Find out for yourself the true portable theater experience with the Redmi Pad SE 8.7 today! Learn more about it by visiting http://mi.com/ph.
TECHNOLOGY
Kickstart your side hustles with Maya Personal Loan
8:22 a.m. September 1, 2024
BEEN dreaming of opening your own coffee shop or launching an online store but stuck without the funds? Fret not! With the Personal Loan product of Maya, the #1 Digital Bank in the Philippines, turning your side venture into reality is effortless with just a few taps.
Boost Your Funds for your Side Hustle
Currently in early access and available to select users, Maya Personal Loan offers up to ₱250,000 with flexible repayment terms of up to 24 months and an incredibly low add-on rate of just 0.77% per month. Whether you’re planning to launch a new business, invest in essential equipment, or enhance your skills through a course, this loan gives you the capital you need to thrive.
Borrow Without the Hassle
Applying for your Maya Personal Loan is simple and stress-free! All you need is your upgraded Maya account to get started—no additional paperwork, collateral, or guarantor required. Once approved, the funds are transferred directly to your Maya Wallet, giving you instant access to the money you need.
Say goodbye to long approval processes and hello to a streamlined, hassle-free experience. Here’s how to get started:
Open your Maya app, go to the Loans tab, and start the application process by tapping ‘Apply now.’
Enter your desired loan amount, complete the application process, and wait for feedback on your eligibility.
Choose your loan offer and tap ‘Accept’ if you’re happy with the terms.
Enter a One-Time Pin (OTP) to authorize the loan disbursement.
Manage Your Loan with Ease
Managing your loan is a breeze with the Maya app. You can settle your dues directly from your Maya Wallet, which helps you maintain a good credit score. Plus, Maya’s top-notch security ensures your funds are safe, so you can focus on growing your side hustle with peace of mind.
Ready to make your next big life move? Apply for a Maya Personal Loan today and give your side hustle the boost it needs to succeed. Keep using Maya for your transactions to stay on track and become eligible for more loan opportunities. For more information, visit maya.ph and mayabank.ph, and stay connected by following @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok.
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