Saturday, May 31, 2025

New North Korean Spyware Targets Android Devices, Harvesting Personal Data

Lookout
Lookout

U.S. cybersecurity firm Lookout reported that APT37, a hacking group backed by North Korean authorities, has developed a new type of spyware. Spyware is software that installs on devices without user consent and collects and transmits sensitive information.

In a report titled “Lookout Discovers New Spyware by North Korean APT37,” Lookout’s security expert Alemdar Islamoglu revealed that hackers linked to the North Korean regime uploaded Android spyware to Google Play and the App Store, deceiving users into downloading the malicious software KoSpy. KoSpy is an Android-based malware disguised as a utility app. It offers services in both Korean and English, suggesting its targets are Korean and English-speaking individuals.

TechCrunch reported that KoSpy has been downloaded more than ten times from Google Play, indicating an active espionage campaign. It’s worth noting that North Korean hackers recently stole Ethereum worth $1.4 billion from a cryptocurrency exchange, reportedly to fund the regime’s prohibited nuclear weapons program. However, the specific motivation behind this new spyware remains unclear.

Christoph Hebeisen, Lookout’s head of security intelligence research, told TechCrunch that the limited number of downloads suggests the spyware was likely targeting specific individuals.

KoSpy can harvest sensitive data, including SMS messages, call logs, device location, files and folders, keystrokes, Wi-Fi network details, and lists of installed apps. It can also record audio, capture photos using the device’s camera, and take screenshots. Researchers discovered that KoSpy searches through Firestore, one of Google’s cloud services.

Google spokesperson Ed Fernandez said that Lookout recently shared their findings and emphasized Google’s commitment to user protection, stating, “We have removed all identified apps from Google Play.”

Hot this week

Trump’s Bold Move: Retirement Funds Can Now Flow into Bitcoin Investments

The Trump administration allows Bitcoin investments in pension accounts, reversing Biden-era restrictions, potentially benefiting the Trump family.

WTI and Brent Crude Climb on Renewed Supply Fears

Oil prices surged due to supply concerns and geopolitical tensions, despite OPEC+ plans to maintain production levels.

Nvidia Beats Expectations with AI-Driven Growth, Stock Rallies Post-Close

The New York stock market fell ahead of Nvidia's earnings, which later exceeded expectations, boosting investor confidence and tech stocks.

First Sale Rule Gains Renewed Traction Amid New U.S. Tariffs

As tariffs rise, companies are revisiting the First Sale Rule to lower import duties, despite its strict requirements and paperwork.

OPEC+ Meeting Spurs Market Caution, Drives Oil Prices Lower

Oil prices fell as OPEC+ plans to boost output, with Brent crude at $64.09 and WTI at $60.89 per barrel amid rising supply expectations.

Topics

Trump’s Bold Move: Retirement Funds Can Now Flow into Bitcoin Investments

The Trump administration allows Bitcoin investments in pension accounts, reversing Biden-era restrictions, potentially benefiting the Trump family.

WTI and Brent Crude Climb on Renewed Supply Fears

Oil prices surged due to supply concerns and geopolitical tensions, despite OPEC+ plans to maintain production levels.

Nvidia Beats Expectations with AI-Driven Growth, Stock Rallies Post-Close

The New York stock market fell ahead of Nvidia's earnings, which later exceeded expectations, boosting investor confidence and tech stocks.

First Sale Rule Gains Renewed Traction Amid New U.S. Tariffs

As tariffs rise, companies are revisiting the First Sale Rule to lower import duties, despite its strict requirements and paperwork.

OPEC+ Meeting Spurs Market Caution, Drives Oil Prices Lower

Oil prices fell as OPEC+ plans to boost output, with Brent crude at $64.09 and WTI at $60.89 per barrel amid rising supply expectations.

U.S. Markets Rebound Post-Holiday on Optimism Over U.S.–EU Trade

U.S. stock markets surged after tariff negotiations, with M7 tech companies leading gains, notably Tesla and Nvidia.

North Korea’s Mount Kumgang Poised for UNESCO World Heritage Status

North Korea's Mount Kumgang is recommended for UNESCO World Heritage listing, potentially becoming its third site by July.

Qualcomm Unveils Next-Gen DragonWing Tools for Embedded and Industrial IoT

Qualcomm hosted the IoT Partner & Tech Day, showcasing innovations in IoT, AI, and new products to strengthen partnerships in various sectors.

Related Articles