22-07-2025
Millions of Android devices infected with virus- check if yours needs turning off
Millions of Android devices have been affected by the cyber attack
An urgent warning has been issued to Android users that millions of devices have been infected with the 'BadBox malware' virus. The bug can allow cyber criminals to make money off infected devices through adware and expose users to ransomware, where they threaten to leak your personal data unless you pay up.
The Mirror reports that around 10 million gadgets have even been exposed to the second version of the virus, called BadBox 2.0, but this time around it's not phones that have been attacked. Instead, it's other devices that also use a version of Android including tablets, projectors and streaming boxes.
These very cheap and products are being made in China and often come pre-loaded with BadBox. To keep consumers safe, Google is now trying to shut down the cyber-crime operation by filing a lawsuit against those creating and selling the dodgy devices.
"This botnet—called the 'BadBox 2.0' botnet—is already the largest known botnet of internet-connected TV devices, and it grows each day,' Google confirmed.
'Without warning, it could be used to commit more dangerous cybercrimes, such as ransomware or distributed denial-of-service ('DDoS') attacks.'
As well as Google taking action, the FBI has also had its say on the problems, with the law agency urging consumers to be aware and turn things off if they think they have a device that could be infected.
'The public is urged to evaluate IoT devices in their home for any indications of compromise and consider disconnecting suspicious devices from their networks," the FBI said.
Some of the known devices that have been infected with the virus include Android TV boxes with model numbers X88 Pro 10, T95, MXQ Pro, and QPLOVE Q9.
If you think you have bought a set-top box from an unofficial store - especially any of the ones mentioned above - it's worth checking to see if it Google Play Protect-certified.
Before buying a new device, it's also worth avoiding off-brand gadgets that aren't from a known manufacturer, as they could be targeted by Badbox 2.0.
This malware can also be added after the box is installed in homes, so be careful when downloading apps and only access official and protected software.
In other cyber hacking news, the aftermath of the infamous M&S hacking scandal has continued with a huge-scale multi-million pound lawsuit against the company.
Hackers had obtained customer and staff information that could include phone numbers, home addresses, dates of birth and online ordering histories of millions of people in a cyberattack in April.
In May, Thompsons Solicitors launched a class action suit which could result in compensation pay-outs of several hundred pounds per customer.
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