Also known as: SpyNote, CypherRat
Category: Malware
Type: Remote access trojan (RAT)
Platform: Android
Variants: SpyNote
Damage potential: Account takeover, identity theft, data theft (including passwords and banking information), keylogging, screen recording, adding the device to a botnet, taking over device control, privilege escalation, ransomware deployment, disrupting operations.
Overview
SpyMax is a highly sophisticated remote access trojan (RAT) that primarily targets Android systems. Built in 2019, it has been used by cybercriminals to gain unauthorized access to mobile devices, allowing for surveillance, data theft, and remote control. This malware is known for its ability to bypass security measures and hide its communications.
Additionally, SpyMax provides a user-friendly interface and customizable features, making it more accessible to cybercriminals with varying levels of technical expertise. Unlike some RATs, which may require more advanced knowledge to operate, SpyMax uses a simplified setup that allows attackers to remotely control devices, monitor real-time activities, and steal data with relative ease.
Possible symptoms
Like any malware designed for stealing data and spying, SpyMax uses stealth to avoid detection for as long as possible. Because of that, the victim is unlikely to notice any obvious alterations to their files or signs of infection.
Potential indicators of a SpyMax infection include:
- Frequent device crashes.
- Increased data usage.
- Unauthorized app installations.
- Sudden battery drain.
- Suspicious apps that request excessive permissions.
- Unexplained changes to system settings (such as camera and microphone permissions).
- Suspicious system warnings, or unfamiliar app notifications.
- Disabled security software.
Sources of the infection
SpyMax typically spreads through malicious apps and fake app stores. Although sometimes, hackers may also use phishing attempts to send Android users links that direct to unofficial Android app stores or malicious APK download sites.
Protection
To protect yourself against SpyMax, never download software through email links, and always scan items you download for potential malware.
You can also take other protective measures:
- Use email scanning tools to identify and automatically block messages with suspicious attachments.
- Use two-factor authentication (2FA) to add an extra layer of security to your mobile accounts. It will reduce the risk of account compromise by allowing you to monitor and block unauthorized login attempts, and maintain control over your accounts even when passwords are compromised.
- Avoid potentially dangerous websites, like pages on the dark web or torrent repositories. These websites may attempt to install malware (including SpyMax) on your device as soon as you open them.
- Always check the legitimacy of the site before downloading anything. SpyMax operators often spoof legitimate websites to host infected files, so look for any sign of fraud (including the lack of HTTPS or web certificates).
- Use mobile security apps. Improve your mobile security with trusted online security apps, such as NordVPN. With NordVPN’s Threat Protection DNS filtering feature you can safeguard your mobile connection from unwanted snoopers and dangerous domains, keeping your Android safe from phishing websites, trackers, and malicious URLs.
Removal
After discovering a SpyMax infection, you should remove the malware using antivirus software. Manual removal is not recommended because the trojan may regenerate after you reboot your device.
