5 million Android users may be affected by the largest malware attack yet

Android malware attacks aren't rare at all, but this recent one could sound a bit alarming because Symantec calls it the "largest malware outbreak on the Android Market" yet. According to the anti-virus company, a total of 13 apps currently available for free download on the Market are packaged with malware dubbed Android.Counterclank. And based on the number of collective downloads, the malware may have infected as much as five million Android devices.

Android.Counterclank can steal personal information from your device, change your browser home page, and force install advertisements. But Lookout Mobile Security, another anti-malware company, disagrees with Symantec's finding. In a blog post on its website, Lookout asserts that Android.Counterclank is not malware, but an "aggressive form of advertising network" instead. Regardless of its true nature, it isn't something you'd want on your  phone or tablet.

All 13 apps from three developers named iApps7 Inc, Ogre Games, and redmicapps have been on the Market for a month. Take note that some of the apps are very similar in nature to legitimate ones. If you think you've downloaded any of the malware carriers, update your security software or install one (like Symantec's Norton Security or Lookout Mobile Security) if you don't have any, and run a full system scan to get rid of Android.Counterclank.

[via Computerworld]

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