Sometimes a virus or malware infection can be so bad that the best solution is to completely wipe the device and start over with a factory reset. This can be pretty annoying. A new type of malware targeting Android devices just found a way to become even more annoying by being able to withstand a complete factory reset.
Meet xHelper, The Malware That Refuses to Go Away
As of right now, it is suspected that xHelper has infected around 50,000 devices, which is a big number, but relatively low when it comes to malware of this type. The big names in cybersecurity, Symantec, Malwarebytes and the like don’t have any clear answers on how to actually remove the threat. If that’s not enough, deleting everything on your smartphone and doing a factory reset won’t remove the malware either. Once you set your device back up, the threat will be back.
What Does xHelper Do?
We have good news and bad news. The good news is that right now, it seems that xHelper just gives you annoying pop-up spam and notifications. It’s goal? To get you to install more applications, and likely these applications could come with additional threats.
It is also suspected that xHelper can download and install apps on its own. It hasn’t been officially detected doing this in the wild yet, but if it could do that, then you would essentially lose control over your device.
Don’t Forget, You Can’t Get Rid of xHelper Once You Get It
As of right now, there is no way to uninstall xHelper, and even resetting your device to factory settings keeps the malware installed. There is essentially no help for you other than getting a new phone, or waiting for Google or one of the major players in cybersecurity to figure out a way to remove it.
For Now, All You Can Do is Avoid Getting xHelper
The malware seems to get installed from scammy websites. The app isn’t currently found on the Google Play Store. Only install apps from the Google Play Store and never from any other website. Google has a vetting process that keeps most apps on the Google Play Store relatively safe.
When it comes to cybersecurity, the best place to get started is being aware of the threats and employing safe habits. That, and ensuring that your business data is thoroughly protected. Don’t wait for a problem to happen. Give us a call at 844.671.6071 today.