Porn App Takes Secret Photos Of Users And Holds Them Ransom
An Android app that is available for smartphones and tablets is at the center of controversy after it has been revealed that it secretly takes photos of those using it and then holds the device ransom until a fee is paid.
Security firm Zscaler, which is based in the US, reports that the app Adult Player markets itself as a way to access pornography easily but is in fact being used for an illegal purpose. The program can take photographs using the front facing camera present on most Android devices, without the user even knowing, before locking the device until a fee of $500 is paid.
The frequency of malicious apps and programs that hold electronic equipment to ransom are known as ransomware and experts warn that they are a growing form of crime. They are generally incredibly difficult to remove from a device and will often keep personal information or files locked until a fee has been paid.
Raj Samani, chief technology officer for Intel Security in Europe, explained that these types of malicious software are on the rise because they are so easy to create and distribute. He went on to state: “Apps like this rely on the embarrassment factor. If you don’t pay, your reputation is on the line.“
Meanwhile, Zscaler has offered some advice for those who are concerned about ransomware and how to avoid installing potentially dangerous apps and programs: “You can stay safe with some basic common sense. Some ransomware threatens to delete your photos, videos and documents so back up your data. Then if you are targeted you can wipe your system and start over. Only download apps from the proper Google Play store. And if you receive an app download link in an email, don’t click it.“
