Hackers are exploiting the vast number of insecure web-connected devices to create botnets, spread by malicious apps, to attack websites and services. In one instance, 300 such apps were spread across the Google Play app store, to create a botnet called WireX. The researchers said they had found evidence that some Android phones have been infected with malware known as Blackphone, which is used in targeted attacks against organisations including banks and government agencies. In the attack, hackers were at one point able to control over 120,000 IP addresses in 100 countries. It has now been disabled, and the apps removed from Google Play.
Hackers are exploiting the vast number of insecure web-connected devices to create botnets, spread by malicious apps, to attack websites and services. In one instance, 300 such apps were spread across the Google Play app store, to create a botnet called WireX. When installed, the apps took control of the linked devices to send enormous amounts of spoof traffic to websites, forcing some services offline. In the attack, hackers were at one point able to control over 120,000 IP addresses in 100 countries. It has now been disabled, and the apps removed from Google Play.