Student-led research deploys AI to spot stealthy Android malware
Nesreen Dalhy B.S. '23, M.S. '25 worked with Dr. Karim Elish, associate professor of computer science at Florida Poly, to identify new, more effective ways to detect this malicious software as part of her master's thesis.
"RATs are a significant cybersecurity threat – they are particularly hard to detect, remain persistent and attempt to steal as much of your data as possible," said Dalhy, who has bachelor's and master's degrees in computer science from the University. "A lot of the existing research tries to identify general types of malware, but there isn't much that specifically tries to detect RATs."
Dalhy, from Davenport, Florida, said RATs have been a problem for years, evolving alongside technology. They continually find new ways to stay hidden in smartphones and steal users' personal information. Androids account for over 80% of the world's mobile devices.
"It can silently run in the background of your phone and spy on you without you realizing it," she said. "When you're using an app, you're just seeing whatever is on the screen and not everything that is going on, and that's what RATs take advantage of."
It's under this cyber cloak that the malware can take control of an Android device to make calls, send messages, record audio or video, or even encrypt the device's files and demand a ransom.
Dalhy and Elish trained a machine learning model to focus only on narrow samples of malware to identify and differentiate specific RAT patterns. By using different threat intelligence databases, they were able to analyze which malware exhibited RAT behavior and use RAT characteristics to highlight more of the smaller samples for detection.
Elish, an expert on Android security, said three models they developed detected almost all RATS with 99% accuracy.
The next steps for this work will be developing a mobile application based on its results and expanding the research model to detect a broader range of malware families to improve its utility and effectiveness.
"Nesreen did amazing work that will have a lot of impact on the community," Elish said. "I am very proud of her work and that we are able to publish this and present it at an important conference."
Dalhy and Elish presented the research at the industry-leading IEEE/ACIS International Conference on Software Engineering, Management and Applications in May.
View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/student-led-research-deploys-ai-to-spot-stealthy-android-malware-302475032.html
SOURCE Florida Polytechnic University
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time Business News
35 minutes ago
- Time Business News
Mobile Audio Editing for Business Podcasts with AudioLab
Podcasts have become one of the most effective ways for businesses to connect with their audience. From sharing industry insights to telling brand stories, podcasting offers a direct and personal communication channel. But while the concept of creating a podcast sounds simple, the production side has traditionally been a challenge. Editing often required expensive desktop software, technical skills, and a dedicated studio setup. Now, with mobile audio editing tools like AudioLab – music editor app, businesses can produce professional-quality podcasts using just a smartphone. In recent years, podcasts have moved from being a niche hobby to a mainstream business tool. Companies are using them for thought leadership, customer education, employee engagement, and marketing campaigns. According to industry reports, more than half of business decision-makers listen to podcasts regularly. For many brands, a podcast is a cost-effective way to build credibility and maintain ongoing conversations with their audience. However, as the number of podcasts has grown, so have listener expectations. Audiences now expect clear audio, well-edited episodes, and a polished listening experience. Poor sound quality can undermine the message and make even valuable content less appealing. Traditionally, podcast editing meant recording audio, transferring files to a computer, and using complex software like Audacity or Adobe Audition. This process could be time-consuming and required access to equipment and a quiet editing environment. Mobile audio editing tools have removed these barriers. With an app like AudioLab, you can record, edit, and publish directly from your phone. This flexibility is especially valuable for business teams that need to produce content quickly or work remotely. Mobile tools also mean businesses are no longer tied to a studio schedule. A marketing manager can record an interview at an event, clean up the audio on the spot, and have the episode ready for publishing the same day. This speed can be a competitive advantage in industries where timely insights matter. AudioLab is a versatile audio editing app for Android that combines an easy-to-use interface with a wide range of professional features. For business podcasting, some of its most useful tools include: Noise Remover : Eliminates background sounds like air conditioning, traffic, or crowd noise. : Eliminates background sounds like air conditioning, traffic, or crowd noise. Audio Trimming : Allows precise cutting of unwanted sections or pauses. : Allows precise cutting of unwanted sections or pauses. Stem Separation : Splits a recording into separate voice and background tracks for easier adjustments. : Splits a recording into separate voice and background tracks for easier adjustments. Audio Mixing : Combines multiple recordings, such as interviews, intro music, and sound effects. : Combines multiple recordings, such as interviews, intro music, and sound effects. Voice Recording : High-quality built-in recorder with real-time monitoring. : High-quality built-in recorder with real-time monitoring. File Conversion: Supports different formats for compatibility with podcast hosting platforms. The app's design means even someone without audio engineering experience can produce clean, professional episodes. Recording on the Go: Business leaders often attend conferences, trade shows, or networking events where opportunities to record valuable conversations arise. Using AudioLab, they can capture these moments instantly without needing separate hardware. Quick Editing and Publishing: Instead of waiting to return to the office to edit, teams can remove mistakes, adjust volume levels, and add intro or outro music directly from their phone. Consistent Audio Branding: By keeping intro music, jingles, and sound effects saved within the app, businesses can ensure every episode maintains a consistent sound identity. Remote Collaboration: Team members in different locations can record their parts separately, and the editor can merge them in AudioLab, creating a seamless final product. One of the biggest advantages of mobile editing tools like AudioLab is the reduction in production costs. There is no need to invest in high-end editing software or studio time for every episode. For small businesses and startups, this is particularly important. It also saves time by streamlining the workflow—no file transfers, no waiting for a desktop to process edits, and no delays in publishing. Some may wonder if mobile editing compromises audio quality. With AudioLab, the answer is no. The app's processing capabilities rival those of many desktop programs, especially for the core needs of podcast editing. Noise removal, equalization, and mixing features allow for a clear and balanced sound that meets professional standards. With more businesses launching podcasts, standing out requires both great content and great sound. Mobile tools like AudioLab allow companies to respond quickly to trending topics, publish episodes faster, and maintain quality without expanding their production budget. This agility is particularly valuable for businesses in fast-moving industries like technology, finance, and marketing. The podcasting landscape is evolving, and mobile audio editing tools are a major driver of that change. AudioLab, with its combination of professional features and user-friendly design, makes it possible for any business to produce high-quality episodes without the traditional hurdles. For companies looking to expand their brand voice, engage audiences, and stay competitive, embracing mobile editing is no longer just an option—it's a smart business move. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
CNET
4 hours ago
- CNET
This Free Hack Turns Any Old Smartphone Into a Security Camera
Upgrading your phone doesn't have to mean tossing the old one in a drawer. With just a few quick steps, you can repurpose that retired iPhone or Android into a useful security cam, with no no pricey hardware required. It's an easy, budget-friendly way to keep an eye on your front door, garage, or any spot that matters most. And best of all, you can start small. All you need is a free home security camera app and a way to position the phone where you want coverage. If you want to take it further, a simple phone stand or mount can give you the perfect angle. In minutes, your unused device can start streaming video, adding an extra layer of protection to your home without spending a dime. Step 1: Install a security camera app on your old smartphone Alfred Camera is free and lets you set up a cam solution yourself. Alfred Camera To begin, you will need to choose a security camera app. Most apps offer many of the same features, such as local streaming, cloud streaming, recording and storing footage locally or remotely, and motion detection and alerts. Once you're set up, you will be able to monitor your living space and control your security camera from anywhere, straight from your new phone. One of the best app options for setting up your phone as a security camera is Alfred. It's cross-platform, so it doesn't matter if your old phone was an Android phone or iPhone. And the same goes for your new phone. Alfred is free to use and gives you a remote view of your live feed, motion detection with alerts, free cloud storage, a two-way audio feed and use of both the front and rear cameras. To unlock additional features, like higher-resolution viewing and recording, zoom capabilities, ad removal and 30-day cloud storage, you can upgrade to Alfred Premium. 1. Download Alfred (Android, iOS) on both your old and new phones. You don't have to use a phone as a monitoring tool -- you can also download Alfred to your tablet or PC if you prefer to keep watch from there. Just make sure the app is on both devices. 2. On the new phone, swipe through the introduction and tap Start. Select Viewer and tap Next. 3. Once you get to the sign-in page, click Sign in with Google (a Google account is required) and sign in with your Google account credentials. 4. On the old phone, repeat the same steps, but instead of selecting Viewer, select Camera. Be sure to sign in to the same Google account. Alfred's app supports night vision, people recognition and more. Alfred Once both phones are signed in to Alfred, you're pretty much done with the setup. Alfred has simplified the camera options to include only a few settings. On iOS, you can only enable motion detection, choose between the front and rear cameras, and enable or disable audio. If you're using an Android device, you have those options and can also enable continuous focus, have Alfred automatically reopen if the phone reboots, set a resolution and enable a passcode lock. From your new phone, you can change a few more settings, such as turning notifications on or off, setting a camera or viewer name, adding other people to your Trust Circle (granting other people access to your video feeds), removing a camera, checking how many times a camera has disconnected, setting motion detection sensitivity and enabling a low-light filter on cameras. If Alfred isn't really doing it for you, you can explore other cam app options. Other apps that can give your old phone a security cam upgrade include: Faceter: Faceter is a surveillance app that offers quick setup and cloud storage for Apple and Android phones. Epoccam iVCam from E2ESoft: iVCam is a more open-source cam solution that's best for those who really want to tinker with camera settings and customize them, although like EpocCam it's focused a bit more on webcam-related activities than security. Step 2: Pick a spot for your new smartphone security camera You can use your new security camera in a variety of ways after the transition. Alfred Camera After you have the stream up and running, you will need to set up and position the camera. You may want it focused on the main entry point to your home, your backyard, the place where you store valuables or a point you think might be particularly vulnerable. If you have multiple old phones, you can set up multiple cameras for fairly robust video coverage. Step 3: Mount and power your security camera smartphone To mount or position the camera, a small smartphone tripod or suction-cup car mount can work wonders and help you position the camera in an inconspicuous place. To broaden the field of view, consider buying a wide-angle lens for your phone, something that can be purchased for between $5 and $20 online. Streaming video is very power-intensive, and the phone will be on 24/7. To keep the phone from dying in the first few hours, you'll need to position it close to a power source. A 10-foot Micro-USB,Lightning cable or USB-C cable and spare phone charger will give you more flexibility in where you can put it. And that's it: Now you can use the security cam app on your new phone to view the feed from your old phone's camera, and you've made your home more secure without spending much at all. Note: When choosing your mounting location, be sure to avoid furnace vents and other heat sources, such as in a window that gets full sun all day. Heat sources can damage your camera's lenses and battery over time, especially when combined with the heat of a power-hungry task like livestreaming. Final note: Old smartphones and security concerns Smartphones will eventually age out of security updates, which means they can eventually become vulnerable to attacks. If your old phone is still online -- like when you're using it as a security camera -- that's a problem. First, we recommend wiping any personal data off the phone before you transform it into a camera. Second, automate your updates when possible. Third, consider giving the phone a final use-by date, after which you'll recycle it. These days, companies try to push security updates for five to seven years after release (with some going even longer in recent years). We have a full guide on the security of older phones if you'd like to learn more. Finally, if we've got you excited about using your smartphone for home security purposes, don't forget that you can also download an app like Hidden Camera Detector to automatically search for telltale signs that there's a cam watching in the room. Airbnb may have outlawed indoor security cameras, but we don't blame you if you still want to check when you're traveling. For more, check out the best DIY home security systems.
Time Business News
4 hours ago
- Time Business News
Why IPTV Subscriptions Are Revolutionizing TV Viewing in 2025
In an era where streaming services dominate entertainment, IPTV (Internet Protocol Television) subscriptions have emerged as a game-changer for how we consume television. Unlike traditional cable or satellite TV, IPTV delivers live TV channels, movies, and on-demand content over the internet, offering unparalleled flexibility and affordability. As the IPTV UK market continues to grow—projected to reach $194.21 billion by 2026—more people are ditching their cable plans for this modern alternative. In this article, we'll explore what makes IPTV subscriptions so appealing, key features to look for, and how to choose the right provider for your entertainment needs. IPTV stands for Internet Protocol Television, a technology that streams television content through broadband internet rather than traditional cable or satellite systems. With an IPTV subscription, users gain access to thousands of live TV channels, video-on-demand (VOD) libraries, and features like catch-up TV or electronic program guides (EPG). These services are typically accessed via apps on devices like smart TVs, Firesticks, Android/iOS devices, or computers, making them highly versatile. Unlike streaming platforms like Netflix or Disney+, which focus primarily on on-demand content, IPTV subscriptions excel at delivering live TV, including sports, news, and international channels, alongside movies and series. This combination of live and on-demand content makes IPTV a compelling choice for cord-cutters seeking a cable-like experience without the hefty price tag. IPTV subscriptions offer several advantages over traditional TV services, making them a popular choice in 2025. Here are the key benefits: One of the primary reasons people switch to IPTV is the significant cost savings. Traditional cable subscriptions can cost hundreds of dollars annually, while many IPTV services offer plans starting as low as $10–$20 per month for thousands of channels and VOD content. This affordability allows users to access premium entertainment without breaking the bank. IPTV subscriptions often provide access to thousands of live channels from around the world, covering sports, entertainment, news, and international programming. For example, some providers boast over 20,000 channels and 150,000 VOD titles, including HD and 4K options. This extensive selection ensures there's something for everyone, from sports enthusiasts to movie buffs. With IPTV, you're not tied to a specific location or device. Most services are compatible with a wide range of devices, including smart TVs, Firesticks, smartphones, and PCs. Features like catch-up TV, DVR, and multi-device streaming allow you to watch your favorite shows anytime, anywhere, as long as you have a stable internet connection (recommended at least 20 Mbps for HD streaming). IPTV subscriptions often come with advanced features that enhance the viewing experience. These include electronic program guides (EPG), pause/rewind live TV, and VOD libraries with movies and series updated regularly. Some providers even offer multi-screen viewing, allowing multiple users in a household to watch different content simultaneously. For viewers interested in global programming, IPTV subscription are a treasure trove. Whether it's European sports, Asian dramas, or American news, IPTV services provide access to channels and content from virtually every continent, making them ideal for multicultural households or expatriates. With thousands of IPTV providers available, choosing the right one can be daunting. Here are key factors to consider when selecting a subscription: A reliable IPTV provider ensures minimal buffering and high-quality streams (HD, FHD, or 4K). Look for services with stable servers and positive user reviews for uptime and performance. Declining stream quality can be a red flag for deeper issues, so opt for providers with a reputation for consistency. Ensure the provider offers the channels and content you care about, such as local stations, sports, or international programming. Some services also include premium features like pay-per-view (PPV) events or adult programming, depending on your preferences. Check if the VOD library is regularly updated with new movies and shows. The best IPTV services support a wide range of devices, including Amazon Firestick, Android/iOS devices, smart TVs, and computers. Confirm that the provider's app or player (e.g., IPTV Smarters Pro, TiviMate) is compatible with your devices for a seamless experience. Reputable providers often offer free trials (ranging from 12 hours to 48 hours) to let you test the service before committing. Monthly subscriptions are safer than long-term plans, as they minimize risk if the provider shuts down unexpectedly. Look for flexible payment options like PayPal or credit cards for added security. Quality customer support is crucial, especially for troubleshooting technical issues. Opt for providers with 24/7 support via live chat, email, or ticketing systems. Responsive support can make a significant difference in your streaming experience. Not all IPTV services are legal. Verified services, like YouTube TV or Sling TV, are available in official app stores and hold proper licensing, but they tend to be pricier. Unverified services, often cheaper, may lack proper licensing and carry legal risks. To protect yourself, use a VPN like ExpressVPN to mask your IP address and ensure secure streaming, especially on unverified services or restricted networks. Always check if the provider has the necessary licenses for your country. Ready to dive into IPTV? Here's a quick guide to get started: Choose a Provider: Research reputable IPTV services based on reviews, channel offerings, and trial options. Avoid providers with poor customer feedback or a history of abruptly shutting down. Check Internet Speed: Ensure your internet connection is at least 20 Mbps for smooth HD streaming. Faster speeds (50 Mbps+) are ideal for 4K content. Download the App: Install the provider's app or a compatible IPTV player (e.g., IPTV Smarters Pro, TiviMate) on your device. Some services may require side-loading for unverified apps. Test with a Trial: Take advantage of free trials to evaluate stream quality, channel selection, and ease of use before committing to a paid plan. Use a VPN: For privacy and access to geo-restricted content, use a VPN like ExpressVPN, especially when traveling or using unverified services. Explore Features: Familiarize yourself with features like EPG, catch-up TV, or DVR to maximize your subscription's value. IPTV subscriptions are transforming the way we watch television by offering affordability, flexibility, and a vast array of content. With the ability to stream live TV, movies, and series on multiple devices, IPTV caters to modern viewing habits in a way traditional cable cannot. As the market continues to grow, driven by demand for high-quality streaming and international content, IPTV is poised to become the go-to choice for entertainment enthusiasts worldwide. However, it's essential to choose a reputable provider to avoid common pitfalls like buffering, unreliable service, or legal issues. By prioritizing reliability, compatibility, and customer support, you can unlock a world of entertainment tailored to your needs. Ready to cut the cord? Explore IPTV subscriptions today and discover a smarter, more flexible way to enjoy your favorite shows, sports, and movies. For more information on top providers and pricing, check trusted resource… TIME BUSINESS NEWS
