Chargeware
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Chargeware is seemingly valid looking mobile applications used to charge a user for services without proper notification or knowledge.[1] Often focused on Internet pornography,[2] third-party porn apps are downloaded onto a user's mobile device, in turn infecting their phone with the malware known as Chargeware.[3]
The purpose of Chargeware is to manipulate a user into agreeing to unclear terms such that fees and charges are applied without the user's full understanding or consent.[4]
Chargeware is deliberately difficult to renege from, so that charges can continue for as long as possible without carrier interference.[5]
In 2013, hundreds of thousands of users, primarily in France and the UK, experienced applications of this nature which ultimately led to other forms of malware on their mobile device(s).[6] Various other countries, such as Spain, encountered Chargeware infections that almost matched the number of adware infections; Japan had the lowest number of Chargeware infections of any other country.[7]
Hackers are reportedly learning their market and changing tactics (i.e., mobile malware) so that operations are harder to trace and harder to shut down.[8] Said markets also include specific countries, since charging practices can vary on either a country or carrier basis.[9]
References[]
- ^ "Chargeware". Lookout. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
- ^ Nic Fildes (February 21, 2014). "Mobile porn habits can bring hefty charges". Sunday Times. Retrieved May 21, 2014.
- ^ Dunn, John. "Europe's mobile criminals migrate to 'chargeware' fraud for richer pickings". TechWorld. Retrieved 14 June 2017.
- ^ Bell, Lee. "Hackers are switching to chargeware scams to steal from mobile users". The Inquirer. Archived from the original on March 3, 2014. Retrieved 13 June 2017.CS1 maint: unfit URL (link)
- ^ Stuart Dredge (February 21, 2014). "The war against mobile 'adware' isn't over yet, warns Lookout". The Guardian. Retrieved May 21, 2014.
- ^ Dredge, Stuart. "The war against mobile 'adware' isn't over yet, warns Lookout". The Guardian. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
- ^ Scharr, Jill. "Rogue Mobile Ads Threaten U.S. Smartphone Users". Tom's Guide. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
- ^ Stevenson, Alastair. "Hackers Moving to Android's Grey Area to Avoid Google and Network Watchdogs". V3. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
- ^ Weldon, David (20 June 2014). "BYOD: Your worst security nightmare?".
- Types of malware
- Internet fraud