VajraSpy RAT, The Spy Tool that Got into Google Play Store – What you need to know

“Stay alert! This Trojan virus looks like an app but infects Android devices. Be cautious and stay safe!”

Downloading an app from the app store may seem safe, but it’s not always the case. Sometimes, you could unknowingly install spyware disguised as a harmless app. VajraSpy RAT is a dangerous type of malware that has been found to infiltrate the Google Play Store. This malware can disguise itself as a legitimate app, making it difficult for users to detect. Once installed, VajraSpy RAT can steal data, record calls, take photos, and more.

In Short:

• VajraSpy RAT is a cyber espionage tool that targets Android devices.
• It infiltrated Google Play and is still active on third-party app stores.
• The Patchwork APT group is behind the VajraSpy RAT.

What is VajraSpy RAT?

VajraSpy RAT is a Remote Access Trojan (RAT) that allows attackers to remotely control an infected device. This means that attackers can steal data, record calls, take photos, and even install other malware on the device.

VajraSpy RAT Overview

Aspect	Details
Name	VajraSpy Remote Access Trojan
Threat Type	Android malware, Remote Access Trojan
Detection Names	Avast-Mobile (Android:Evo-gen [Trj]), Combo Cleaner (Android.Riskware.Agent.JQJ), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of Android/Spy.VajraSpy.A), Kaspersky (HEUR:Trojan-Spy.AndroidOS.Agent.aat)
Symptoms	Slow device performance, modified system settings without user’s permission, the appearance of questionable applications, increased data, and battery usage, browser redirection to questionable websites, delivery of intrusive advertisements
Creator	Patchwork APT group
Active Since	2015
Current Status	Removed from Google Play but still active on third-party app stores
Protection Measures	Awareness of downloaded apps, caution with third-party app stores

How does VajraSpy RAT work?

VajraSpy RAT is typically spread through malicious apps that are downloaded from the Google Play Store. Once installed, the malware will request permission to access various features of the device, such as the camera, microphone, and storage. If the user grants these permissions, the malware will then be able to steal data and perform other malicious activities.

How did VajraSpy RAT infiltrate Google Play?

VajraSpy RAT, a potent cyber espionage tool, infiltrated Google Play through a series of malicious apps. These apps were available for download on Google Play from April 1, 2021, to September 10, 2023. The apps appeared harmless but were laced with the VajraSpy RAT, which would install itself on the user’s device once the app was downloaded and opened. The infected apps were eventually discovered and promptly removed from Google Play. However, during their availability, they posed a significant threat to users, compromising their data and privacy. The incident underscores the importance of vigilance in app downloads.

What is the Cyber Espionage tool VajraSpy RAT?

VajraSpy RAT is a Remote Access Trojan (RAT) designed for targeted espionage on Android devices. It disguises itself as an innocuous app, infiltrating devices when users download it. Once active, it can access and exfiltrate data, including contacts, photos, messages, and even encrypted messages from apps like WhatsApp. It can also record phone calls and activate the device’s camera, turning it into a surveillance tool. Despite its removal from Google Play, it remains active on third-party app stores.

What is the Patchwork APT Group?

The Patchwork APT group is a cyber espionage entity known for its creation of the VajraSpy RAT. This group primarily targets individuals in Pakistan, although its reach is not limited to this region. Active since 2015, the Patchwork APT group has been involved in numerous cyber espionage activities, leveraging sophisticated tools like VajraSpy RAT to infiltrate systems and extract valuable information. Their activities underscore the evolving nature of cyber threats and the importance of robust cybersecurity measures.

How to Protect Yourself from VajraSpy RAT?

There are several things you can do to protect yourself from VajraSpy RAT:

1. Only download apps from trusted sources: When downloading apps from the Google Play Store, be sure to only download apps from trusted developers. Read reviews and ratings before downloading an app, and avoid downloading apps that have a lot of negative reviews.
2. Be careful about the permissions you grant apps: When installing an app, be careful about the permissions you grant it. Only grant the app the permissions that it needs to function.
3. Use a security app: Consider using a security app that can help protect your device from malware.
4. Keep your device up to date: Make sure your device’s software is up to date. This will help to ensure that you have the latest security patches installed.

Possible Damage of VajraSpy RAT

VajraSpy RAT has several dangerous capabilities, including:

1. Stealing data: VajraSpy RAT can steal a variety of data from infected devices, including contacts, messages, call logs, photos, videos, and browsing history.
2. Recording calls: VajraSpy RAT can record phone calls made on the infected device.
3. Taking photos and videos: VajraSpy RAT can take photos and videos using the infected device’s camera.
4. Installing other malware: VajraSpy RAT can be used to install other malware on the infected device.

How to Remove VajraSpy RAT?

If you think your device may be infected with VajraSpy RAT, there are several things you can do to remove it:

• Scan your device with a security app: Use a security app to scan your device for malware. If the app detects VajraSpy RAT, it will usually be able to remove it for you.
• Factory reset your device: If you are unable to remove VajraSpy RAT using a security app, you may need to factory reset your device. This will erase all of the data on your device, so be sure to back up your data before doing this.

Symptoms of a VajraSpy RAT Infection

Several symptoms may indicate that your device is infected with VajraSpy RAT, including:

• Your device is running slower than usual.
• Your battery is draining faster than usual.
• You see unexpected apps on your device.
• You see pop-up ads that you didn’t see before.

Conclusion

VajraSpy RAT is a significant threat to Android users. It infiltrated Google Play and continues to be active on third-party app stores. The Patchwork APT group is behind this cyber espionage tool. To protect yourself, be aware of the apps you download and be cautious of third-party app stores.

FAQs

Who discovered VajraSpy RAT?

VajraSpy RAT was first discovered in March 2022 by QiAnXin. They named it VajraSpy and attributed it to APT-Q-43.

Is VajraSpy RAT dangerous?

Yes, VajraSpy RAT is dangerous as it can steal personal information and compromise device performance.

Can I remove VajraSpy RAT?

Yes, VajraSpy RAT can be removed using legitimate antivirus software.

Will VajraSpy RAT steal my data?

Yes, VajraSpy RAT can steal data, including contacts, photos, messages, and even encrypted messages from apps like WhatsApp.