How to eliminate KoSpy from infected devices
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on
What kind of malware is KoSpy?
KoSpy is spyware targeting Android users who speak Korean and English. It masquerades as utility apps, employs a two-stage C2 infrastructure, and gathers a wide range of data from compromised devices. The malware is distributed through Google Play and third-party app stores such as APKPure.
KoSpy in detail
Once infiltrated, KoSpy retrieves configuration from Firebase Firestore that allows the attacker to control the spyware (to turn it on or off and change the server if necessary). The spyware also checks to ensure the device is not an emulator and that the current date is after a specific activation date to avoid revealing its malicious purpose.
KoSpy sends two types of requests to its control server. One request is for downloading plugins, while the other gets settings for its spying features. KoSpy is capable of gathering a wide range of sensitive information from infected devices using the downloaded plugins.
This includes collecting text messages, call logs, device location, files stored locally, and even recording audio or taking photos through the device's cameras. It can also capture screenshots, record the screen, track keystrokes by exploiting accessibility features, and gather details about Wi-Fi networks and installed apps.
Cybercriminals can exploit KoSpy's capabilities to steal sensitive personal information, such as SMS messages, call logs, and location data, which can be used for identity theft or financial fraud. They can also access private files, record audio, take photos, and monitor screen activity to gather private conversations or sensitive information.
Additionally, keylogging can allow attackers to capture login credentials and other confidential details. This invasion of privacy can lead to serious consequences like account takeovers, financial loss, or further exploitation of the victim's personal data.
| Name | KoSpy Android Spyware |
| Threat Type | Spyware, Android malware |
| Detection Names | Avast-Mobile (Android:Evo-gen [Trj]), Combo Cleaner (Android.Trojan.SpyAgent.QT), K7GW (Trojan ( 005a76541 )), Symantec Mobile Insight (AdLibrary:Generisk), Full List (VirusTotal) |
| Symptoms | The device is running slow, system settings are modified without user's permission, questionable applications appear, data and battery usage is increased significantly, browsers redirect to questionable websites, intrusive advertisements are delivered. |
| Distribution methods | Malicious applications, third-party app stores (like APKPure), Google Play |
| Damage | Stolen personal information (private messages, logins/passwords, etc.), decreased device performance, battery is drained quickly, decreased Internet speed, huge data losses, monetary losses, stolen identity (malicious apps might abuse communication apps). |
| Malware Removal (Android) | To eliminate possible malware infections, scan your mobile device with legitimate antivirus software. Our security researchers recommend using Combo Cleaner. |
Conclusion
In conclusion, KoSpy is a dangerous spyware that can gather extensive personal data from infected Android devices. By utilizing KoSpy's features, cybercriminals can engage in identity theft, financial fraud, and privacy invasions, leading to severe consequences for victims.
Some examples of other Android malware are SpyLend, NativeWorm, and SparkCat.
How did KoSpy infiltrate my device?
KoSpy disguises itself as various utility apps, including "Phone Manager", "File Manager", "Smart Manager", "Kakao Security", and "Software Update Utility". Some versions of KoSpy were found on both the Google Play Store and third-party app stores like APKPure. However, these apps are no longer available on the Google Play Store.
KoSpy infection occurs when users unknowingly download and install malicious apps disguised as legitimate utilities. It is worth noting that malicious advertisements, fraudulent emails (and other forms of messages) are also commonly used to deliver malicious software.
How to avoid installation of malware?
Only download apps from trusted sources like Google Play. Avoid using third-party stores or suspicious websites. Be careful when clicking links in unexpected or suspicious emails, SMS, or social media messages, as they may lead to harmful content. Ensure your Android system and apps are regularly updated, and enable Google Play Protect for added security.
KoSpy on Google Play disguised as "File Manager" (source: lookout.com):
KoSpy's interface (source: lookout.com):
Quick menu:
- Introduction
- How to delete browsing history from the Chrome web browser?
- How to disable browser notifications in the Chrome web browser?
- How to reset the Chrome web browser?
- How to delete browsing history from the Firefox web browser?
- How to disable browser notifications in the Firefox web browser?
- How to reset the Firefox web browser?
- How to uninstall potentially unwanted and/or malicious applications?
- How to boot the Android device in "Safe Mode"?
- How to check the battery usage of various applications?
- How to check the data usage of various applications?
- How to install the latest software updates?
- How to reset the system to its default state?
- How to disable applications that have administrator privileges?
Delete browsing history from the Chrome web browser:
Tap the "Menu" button (three dots on the right-upper corner of the screen) and select "History" in the opened dropdown menu.
Tap "Clear browsing data", select "ADVANCED" tab, choose the time range and data types you want to delete and tap "Clear data".
Disable browser notifications in the Chrome web browser:
Tap the "Menu" button (three dots on the right-upper corner of the screen) and select "Settings" in the opened dropdown menu.
Scroll down until you see "Site settings" option and tap it. Scroll down until you see "Notifications" option and tap it.
Find the websites that deliver browser notifications, tap on them and click "Clear & reset". This will remove permissions granted for these websites to deliver notifications. However, once you visit the same site again, it may ask for a permission again. You can choose whether to give these permissions or not (if you choose to decline the website will go to "Blocked" section and will no longer ask you for the permission).
Reset the Chrome web browser:
Go to "Settings", scroll down until you see "Apps" and tap it.
Scroll down until you find "Chrome" application, select it and tap "Storage" option.
Tap "MANAGE STORAGE", then "CLEAR ALL DATA" and confirm the action by taping "OK". Note that resetting the browser will eliminate all data stored within. This means that all saved logins/passwords, browsing history, non-default settings and other data will be deleted. You will also have to re-login into all websites as well.
Delete browsing history from the Firefox web browser:
Tap the "Menu" button (three dots on the right-upper corner of the screen) and select "History" in the opened dropdown menu.
Scroll down until you see "Clear private data" and tap it. Select data types you want to remove and tap "CLEAR DATA".
Disable browser notifications in the Firefox web browser:
Visit the website that is delivering browser notifications, tap the icon displayed on the left of URL bar (the icon will not necessarily be a "Lock") and select "Edit Site Settings".
In the opened pop-up opt-in the "Notifications" option and tap "CLEAR".
Reset the Firefox web browser:
Go to "Settings", scroll down until you see "Apps" and tap it.
Scroll down until you find "Firefox" application, select it and tap "Storage" option.
Tap "CLEAR DATA" and confirm the action by taping "DELETE". Note that resetting the browser will eliminate all data stored within. This means that all saved logins/passwords, browsing history, non-default settings and other data will be deleted. You will also have to re-login into all websites as well.
Uninstall potentially unwanted and/or malicious applications:
Go to "Settings", scroll down until you see "Apps" and tap it.
Scroll down until you see a potentially unwanted and/or malicious application, select it and tap "Uninstall". If, for some reason, you are unable to remove the selected app (e.g., you are prompted with an error message), you should try using the "Safe Mode".
Boot the Android device in "Safe Mode":
The "Safe Mode" in Android operating system temporarily disables all third-party applications from running. Using this mode is a good way to diagnose and solve various issues (e.g., remove malicious applications that prevent users you from doing so when the device is running "normally").
Push the "Power" button and hold it until you see the "Power off" screen. Tap the "Power off" icon and hold it. After a few seconds the "Safe Mode" option will appear and you'll be able run it by restarting the device.
Check the battery usage of various applications:
Go to "Settings", scroll down until you see "Device maintenance" and tap it.
Tap "Battery" and check the usage of each application. Legitimate/genuine applications are designed to use as low energy as possible in order to provide the best user experience and to save power. Therefore, high battery usage may indicate that the application is malicious.
Check the data usage of various applications:
Go to "Settings", scroll down until you see "Connections" and tap it.
Scroll down until you see "Data usage" and select this option. As with battery, legitimate/genuine applications are designed to minimize data usage as much as possible. This means that huge data usage may indicate presence of malicious application. Note that some malicious applications might be designed to operate when the device is connected to wireless network only. For this reason, you should check both Mobile and Wi-Fi data usage.
If you find an application that uses a lot of data even though you never use it, then we strongly advise you to uninstall it as soon as possible.
Install the latest software updates:
Keeping the software up-to-date is a good practice when it comes to device safety. The device manufacturers are continually releasing various security patches and Android updates in order to fix errors and bugs that can be abused by cyber criminals. An outdated system is way more vulnerable, which is why you should always be sure that your device's software is up-to-date.
Go to "Settings", scroll down until you see "Software update" and tap it.
Tap "Download updates manually" and check if there are any updates available. If so, install them immediately. We also recommend to enable the "Download updates automatically" option - it will enable the system to notify you once an update is released and/or install it automatically.
Reset the system to its default state:
Performing a "Factory Reset" is a good way to remove all unwanted applications, restore system's settings to default and clean the device in general. However, you must keep in mind that all data within the device will be deleted, including photos, video/audio files, phone numbers (stored within the device, not the SIM card), SMS messages, and so forth. In other words, the device will be restored to its primal state.
You can also restore the basic system settings and/or simply network settings as well.
Go to "Settings", scroll down until you see "About phone" and tap it.
Scroll down until you see "Reset" and tap it. Now choose the action you want to perform:
"Reset settings" - restore all system settings to default;
"Reset network settings" - restore all network-related settings to default;
"Factory data reset" - reset the entire system and completely delete all stored data;
Disable applications that have administrator privileges:
If a malicious application gets administrator-level privileges it can seriously damage the system. To keep the device as safe as possible you should always check what apps have such privileges and disable the ones that shouldn't.
Go to "Settings", scroll down until you see "Lock screen and security" and tap it.
Scroll down until you see "Other security settings", tap it and then tap "Device admin apps".
Identify applications that should not have administrator privileges, tap them and then tap "DEACTIVATE".
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
My device is infected with KoSpy malware, should I format my storage device to get rid of it?
Formatting your storage device can eliminate KoSpy, but it should be a last resort. Start by using a trusted security tool like Combo Cleaner to detect and remove the malware. This approach is typically faster and less disruptive than wiping your device entirely.
What are the biggest issues that malware can cause?
Malware can steal sensitive data, leading to financial losses and identity theft. It may cause system malfunctions and give cybercriminals control over your device. Moreover, malware can spread to other devices, infecting them, or deploying additional harmful payloads.
What is the purpose of KoSpy?
KoSpy is spyware designed to steal sensitive information from Android devices. It collects data such as SMS messages, call logs, location, files, and even records audio, takes photos, or tracks keystrokes.
How did KoSpy infiltrate my device?
KoSpy likely infiltrated your device through malicious apps disguised as legitimate utilities. These apps were distributed via third-party app stores like Apkpure and, at one point, Google Play.
Will Combo Cleaner protect me from malware?
Combo Cleaner can detect and remove most malware infections, but advanced malware can hide deep within the system. To ensure thorough removal, running a complete system scan is recommended.
Outstanding!
▼ Show Discussion