The report comes directly from Microsoft: some apps Android they seem subject to a new and dangerous baptized vulnerability Dirty Stream.
This flaw in the data flow system on the mobile operating system allows cybercriminals, through malicious code, to overwrite files in a legitimate app’s folder to take control of it. Once this is done, hackers can gain a lot of room to maneuver, easily bypassing most detection techniques.
The result is, in most cases, free access to various sensitive information contained in the targeted app, including login credentials used to launch the same software.
Making Dirty Stream even more dangerous is the fact that, apparently, among the apps targeted are some that are very popular and considered safe by users.
Dirty Stream: risky apps and how to prevent potential infection
According to the data proposed by Microsoft experts, the applications victimized by Dirty Stream include, for example Xiaomi File Manager e WPS Office. We are talking about very popular software since the two apps record together approximately 1.5 billion installations potentially vulnerable.
Despite this, it must be said that the developers of both apps have already proposed some in recent months corrective patches. In fact, the only real risk is for those who have not updated the two software for several months. At present, however, it is not yet known whether and which other apps are subject to Dirty Stream.
To prevent this type of infection is necessary constantly update apps in the Android environment, only and always downloading software from Google Play Store. The operating system itself should, as far as possible, be kept up to date. Finally, taking a prudent approach and using a antivirusmay be other determining factors to avoid unpleasant encounters.