While Google’s Android operating system is rapidly catching on with consumers, it seems cybercriminals are also populating the platform – according to a recent report from security firm Kaspersky, a Trojan virus masquerading as a media player has been discovered.
The Trojan victimizes Android users who are looking for adult content on the web. The malicious file claims it is a media player that serves pornographic videos, but once consumers install it, it sends text messages to premium numbers that cost the victim up to $6 per text.
Additionally, cybercrimminals are using search engine optimization techniques to help spread the virus. "The use of SEO is a significant development that confirms our belief that mobile malware – especially on Android devices – is a potentially lucrative business for malicious hackers," reports Kaspersky.
With the number of Android users rising, cybercriminals are likely to continue targeting the platform for attacks. Tech research firm IDC expects that that Android will account for 24.8 percent of the smartphone market by 2014, relays MediaPost.
