There May Be An Intruder Lurking in Your Device at This Very Moment

Online scams are spreading like wildfire lately, with one in particular picking up the most heat: Malware.

What is malware?

Malware stands for malicious software. It’s a sneaky tool used by cybercriminals to gain unauthorised access to your systems and mobile devices—often without you even knowing. Its goal? To steal sensitive information like personal details and money.

How scammers operate

Recently, malware scams have been using Android Package Kit (.APK) files. Scammers trick unsuspecting users with fake listing ads, luring them into downloading apps from unofficial platforms for payments. But delivering the products isn’t really their plan.

The trap

Here’s how it often goes down: a scammer pretends to be a seller and convinces you to download an .APK file through communication or online shopping apps like WhatsApp or Carousel. If you fall for their trick and download the file, the scammer has the upper hand in your device.

What happens next?

Once the app is downloaded on your phone, scammers will ask you for extensive permissions, granting them full access to your device. Some might even use a keylogger software hidden in the malware to secretly track your keystrokes. This means that they can steal sensitive data like login credentials and passwords as you type them out using your keyboard. Some malware can even capture screenshots, allowing scammers to see what you’re doing in real time.

Better safe than sorry! Here are some ways to keep your devices safe from malware:

How to steer clear of malware scams

• Trust official sources: Only download applications exclusively from official app stores to minimise the risk of malware.
• Take caution of permissions: Be mindful when granting app permissions. Avoid giving unnecessary access thatnmight compromise your privacy and safety.
• Keep your device updated: Regularly update your device's operating system to fix security issues and enhance protection.
• Stay informed: Educate yourself about common scam tactics and share your insights with family and friends to foster a more cyber-aware community.

Ways to avoid spreading virus

• Turn on automatic updates: Make sure all the computers in your network automatically get updates to stay secure.
• Set up a line of defence: Install security software (like antivirus, anti-spyware and firewalls) on your operating system for extra protection.
• Quarantine infected devices: If a computer gets infected, disconnect it from the network immediately to prevent further spread.
• Be cautious with email attachments: Never open email attachments from unknown senders.
• Double-check before clicking: Even if you do personally know the sender, verify their content to ensure it’s safe, as senders may unknowingly share infected files.
• Filter out sketchy file types: Set up your email servers to block harmful attachments like (.VBS, .BAT, .PIF, .SCR, and .EXE files) to keep viruses at bay.

Helpful tips to protect yourself online

• Keep personal info private: Don’t share details like your name, ID number, phone number, or banking info with people you meet online.
• Don't overshare: Avoid sending pictures of yourself, your friends, or your family to someone you’ve just met online.
• Seek parental help: If someone says something that makes you uncomfortable or wants to send you something, talk to your parents or an adult you trust. Pay attention to any personal questions they ask.
• Be wary of unknown links: Don’t open emails, files, or website links from people you don’t know well.
• Keep passwords to yourself: Passwords aren’t meant to be shared, so never share them with anyone.
• Trust your instincts: Expect the unexpected. People online may not be who they claim to be. A self-proclaimed '12-year-old girl' could turn out to be a full-grown man!

If you suspect you've been scammed, immediately call Maybank’s 24/7 Fraud Hotline at 03-5891 4744 or the National Scam Response Centre at 997 (8am-8pm daily).

Be sure to stay updated with the latest information on security awareness and you’ll do just fine! 

💡 The information provided above is purely for educational purposes.