April 09, 2021
FlixOnline application.
Google Play
Check Point Research (CPR) is warning of malware on Google Play hidden in a fake application that is capable of spreading itself via users’ WhatsApp messages.
If the user downloaded the fake application that is disguised as a “Netflix” app and unwittingly granted the malware the appropriate permissions, it was capable of responding to incoming messages on behalf of its victims with a link to an offer of “2 Months of Netflix Premium Free Anywhere in the World for 60 days.”
Check Point says that this unique method could have enabled threat actors to distribute phishing attacks, spread false information or steal credentials and data from users’ WhatsApp accounts, and more.
Dangerous WhatsApp scam message claims Netflix app is offering FREE two-month subscription
Charlotte Edwards, Digital Technology and Science Reporter
8 Apr 2021, 12:50
Updated: 8 Apr 2021, 12:50
A SCAM WhatsApp message claiming to offer a free two-month Netflix subscription has been spreading dangerous malware between Android phones.
This is according to cybersecurity researchers who spotted the wormable malware which is disguised as a fake Netflix app.
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The scam messages tricks people into thinking they can get a free Netflix subscriptionCredit: Alamy
The fake app was lurking on the Google Play Store and if someone downloaded it then hackers could steal their private data.
According to a Check Point Research, the malware disguises itself as a malicious app called “FlixOnline”.
WhatsApp Netflix scam warning as app claims it can give users free subscriptions
The app was found on the Google Play Store and could steal private information
Updated
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The wormable malware spread from Android to Android by sending messages offering free Netflix Premium for 60 days.
Malware disguised as a Netflix app, lurking on the Google Play store, spread through WhatsApp messages, researchers have discovered.
According to a Check Point Research analysis released on Wednesday, the malware masqueraded as an app called “FlixOnline,” which advertised via WhatsApp messages promising “2 Months of Netflix Premium Free Anywhere in the World for 60 days.” But once installed, the malware sets about stealing data and credentials.
The malware was designed to listen for incoming WhatsApp messages and automatically respond to any that the victims receive, with the content of the response crafted by the adversaries. The responses attempted to lure others with the offer of a free Netflix service, and contained links to a fake Netflix site that phished for credentials and credit card information, research