Czech app checks if Android phone has factory-installed malware | Security

RottenSys is a malware for Android recently discovered by Check Point Research that drew attention since it was factory installed on 5 million smartphones, including the brands Samsung, Xiaomi, Huawei, Oppo, Vivo and Gionee. Disguised as a harmless Wi-Fi management application, the threat works in the background to release system permissions to ad networks. Unbeknownst to the user, the virus downloads adware that displays mass advertising banners on the device's screen, including pop-ups and full-screen pages.

Although RottenSys remains cloaked on the phone, it is simple to remove once identified. Software maker Ashampoo has launched an app that tracks your phone to tell if your phone is infected and offers a quick solution with one touch. See how to use in the steps below.

RottenSys Checker checks if Android is infected with malware Photo: Ana Marques / dnetc

What Google has done to make Android more secure

Step 1. Download and install RottenSys Checker free for Android. Then, open the app and tap the central Check now button to search for a threat. The application issues a positive alert if the phone is secure. The program may suggest other apps at this time, but the download is optional and has no relation to the RottenSys malware.

Use the RottenSys Checker to find out if your phone is infected Photo: Reproduo / Paulo Alves

Step 2. If there is an infection by RottenSys, the app issues a red security alert warning. In that case, it is possible to eliminate the threat on the screen with a touch of Delete and make your cell phone safe again.

If your device is infected with RottenSys, Ashampoo's app allows you to eliminate it instantly Photo: Reproduo / Paulo Alves