Mobile malware
(also mobile malicious software)
Mobile malware definition
Mobile malware is malicious code or software that targets smartphones, tablets, and other widely used mobile devices to access and exploit private data. Mobile malware has many forms and shapes, such as spyware, viruses, trojan horses, and worms. All these malicious programs can steal personal data, display unwanted pop-up ads, or even take control of your device. Usually, mobile malware can infect your device through a malicious app, text messages that contain links to infected and malicious websites, and phishing emails.
See also: spyware, anti-malware
Different types of mobile malware
Different types of malware are created for various purposes, but the common goal is to infect mobile devices for personal needs. Here are the most popular types of mobile malware:
- Ransomware: This type of malware used by attackers locks the user’s device or particular data on the device. Attackers use encryption to lock the devices and then demand payment from the user before decrypting the user’s device or data.
- Mobile adware: This malicious adware is also known as “malvertising.” This malware displays unwanted and annoying pop-up ads on the user’s device. That way, attackers generate money. Sometimes pop-up ads tempt users to download malicious software that can steal their personal information such as log-in details, contacts, or location information.
- Mobile spyware: Spyware attacks synchronize with different apps on the mobile device, such as email accounts, calendar apps, notes, and email accounts. That way, the spyware monitors the user’s activity, collects personal data, and sends it to a remote server. That way, users can lose their credit card numbers and other valuable information.
- Botnets: Botnets run seamlessly and automatically when installed on a device. These botnet networks gain complete control over users’ devices. Then the device is controlled remotely by the attackers for further exploitation.
- Trojans: Trojans or bank trojans is malware that disguises itself as legitimate application or software. Once the user installs this type of malware, it can steal personal information, take over the device control or exploit it in other malicious ways. Bank trojans focus on banking actions, including money transfers, bill payments, etc. They aim to steal financial log-ins and passwords.