Technology

Beware of this new Android malware that empties your bank account, clears your device completely

Published

1 year ago

August 7, 2024

Beware of this new Android malware that empties your bank account, clears your device completely

There’s been a spike in malware hitting Android phones, and the latest one, called BingoMod, might be the scariest yet.

This malware can steal money from your accounts and then wipe your phone clean. Using on-device fraud techniques, it can swipe up to $16,000 in one go.

And the worst part? This isn’t even the final version. Researchers say the creators are working on adding more features to make sure it doesn’t get detected.

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A man using his Android phone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

How BingoMod enters your phone

According to researchers at Cleafy, the malware is a remote access trojan (RAT), meaning an attacker uses it to gain full remote access to your Android phone. The malware enters your phone as an app, which is distributed through smishing (SMS phishing) campaigns.

How BingoMod tricks you

The malicious app often masquerades as a legitimate antivirus application with names like APP Protection, Antivirus Cleanup, Chrome Update, InfoWeb, SicurezzaWeb, WebSecurity, WebsInfo, WebInfo, and APKAppScudo. The Cleafy report noted that, in one instance, it also imitated the free AVG AntiVirus & Security tool available on Google Play. We reached out to Google, and a spokesperson provided the following statement.

“Based on our current detection, no apps containing this malware are found on Google Play. Android users are automatically protected against known versions of this malware by Google Play Protect, which is on by default on Android devices with Google Play Services. Google Play Protect can warn users or block apps known to exhibit malicious behavior, even when those apps come from sources outside of Play.”

Once installed on your phone, BingoMod asks you to activate Accessibility Services, which should be taken as a red flag. When you grant access to Accessibility Services, you’re practically giving it access to everything on your phone.

Once BingoMod has all the permissions it needs, its background functions start to act, aiming to provide sensitive data to the actors behind the malware. It uses a technique called keylogging to steal sensitive information displayed on the device screen or entered by you, such as login credentials or account balances. It can also intercept your messages to detect one-time passwords or authentication codes.

How BingoMod ensures its persistence

To stop you from removing it from your phone, the malware blocks you from changing system settings, blocks certain apps and even uninstalls apps. But to cover its tracks, it lets attackers wipe the infected device, usually after a fraudulent transfer has been done.

A woman holding an Android phone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

ANDROID BANKING TROJAN EVOLVES TO EVADE DETECTION AND STRIKE GLOBALLY

The Android malware is evolving

Researchers believe BingoMod has yet to reach its full potential. The malware is still in its testing phase, and the hackers behind it are working to add more features. Cleafy researchers noted,

“BingoMod is in a development phase, where developers are experimenting with obfuscation techniques to lower its detection rate against AV solutions. From the whole sample collected, what has emerged is the will to try multiple anti-analysis configurations rather than making the malware more complex in terms of functionalities.”

Android phone on desk (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

ANDROID BANKING TROJAN MASQUERADES AS GOOGLE PLAY TO STEAL YOUR DATA

11 ways you can protect yourself from the Android malware

While a remote access trojan is hard to detect and can be dangerous once it enters your phone, there are several things you can do to protect your data.

1. Be cautious of phishing attempts: Be vigilant about messages and emails from unknown sources asking for personal information. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or providing sensitive details unless you can verify the legitimacy of the request.

2. Have strong antivirus software: Android has its own built-in malware protection called Play Protect, but it’s not enough to stop all malicious software. Historically, Play Protect hasn’t been 100% foolproof at removing all known malware from Android phones. The best way to protect yourself from clicking malicious links that install malware that may get access to your private information is to have antivirus protection installed on all your devices. This can also alert you of any phishing emails or ransomware scams. Get my picks for the best 2024 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.

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3. Download apps from reliable sources: It’s important to download apps only from trusted sources like the Google Play Store. They have strict checks to prevent malware and other harmful software. However, even with the security measures provided by Google Play, downloading apps from the store does not guarantee 100% protection against malware or harmful software. Avoid downloading apps from unknown websites or unofficial stores, as they can pose a higher risk to your personal data and device. Never trust download links that you get through SMS.

4. Use an identity theft protection service: Given the increasing sophistication of Android malware like BingoMod, using an identity theft protection service is a crucial step in safeguarding your personal information.

Identity theft companies can monitor personal information like your Socia8l Security number, phone number and email address and alert you if it is being sold on the dark web or being used to open an account. They can also assist you in freezing your bank and credit card accounts to prevent further unauthorized use by criminals. See my tips and best picks on how to protect yourself from identity theft.

5. Be cautious with app permissions: Always review the permissions requested by apps before installation. If an app requests access to features that seem unnecessary for its function, it could be a sign of malicious intent. Do not give any app Accessibility permissions unless you really need to. Avoid granting permissions that could compromise your personal data.

6. Monitor your accounts: If you think you have been affected by the banking trojan, regularly review your bank statements, credit card statements and other financial accounts for any unauthorized activity. If you notice any suspicious transactions, report them immediately to your bank or credit card company.

7. Enable SMS notifications for your bank accounts: By enabling SMS notifications, you can monitor your accounts for any unauthorized transactions.

8. Set up two-factor authentication (2FA): 2FA is an extra shield that prevents hackers from accessing your accounts.

9. Use strong and unique passwords: Create strong passwords for your accounts and devices and avoid using the same password for multiple online accounts. Consider using a password manager. A password manager can help you create and store strong, unique passwords for all your accounts, reducing the risk of password theft.

10. Regularly update your device’s operating system and apps: Keeping your software up to date is crucial, as updates often include security patches for newly discovered vulnerabilities that could be exploited by trojans.

11. Avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions: Public Wi-Fi networks can be insecure, making it easier for malware or hackers to intercept your data. When accessing sensitive information or conducting financial transactions, use a secure, private connection to protect your data.

ANDROID USERS AT RISK AS BANKING TROJAN TARGETS MORE APPS

Kurt’s key takeaway

As scary as BingoMod sounds, staying vigilant is your best defense. Always be cautious about downloading apps from unknown sources or clicking on suspicious links in texts. Keep your device updated, use a trusted antivirus and be wary of any app asking for too many permissions. This malware might be evolving, but so are the ways to protect yourself.

Do you check app permissions before installing? How do you decide which permissions are acceptable? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

Technology

Samsung ‘Wide Fold’ rumored to rival Apple’s foldable next year

Published

6 hours ago

December 22, 2025

Press Room

Samsung ‘Wide Fold’ rumored to rival Apple’s foldable next year

Apple’s long-rumored foldable iPhone is set to arrive next year, and already faces some preemptive competition from Samsung. Korea’s ET News reports that Samsung’s upcoming “Wide Fold” is also set to launch in 2026, and will closely mirror the display size and 4:3 aspect ratio of Apple’s first foldable.

The machine-translated report says the Wide Fold is expected to feature an OLED display that measures 5.4 inches in its folded position, and 7.6 inches when unfolded. “It will be a ‘passport’ type with a 4:3 screen ratio when unfolded,” according to an unnamed industry source cited by ET News.

Last week, The Information reported that Apple’s upcoming foldable will feature a 5.3-inch display that increases to 7.7 inches when open, and will have an aspect ratio “similar to that of Apple’s largest iPads when viewed in landscape mode,” and will be “more wide than tall when unfolded.” Most iPad models sport a near 4:3 aspect ratio. This was the latest rumor that pointed to Apple’s first foldable iPhone having a wide aspect ratio in portrait mode, though Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman said in September that the device would look like two iPhone Airs stuck together.

Both Samsung and Apple’s upcoming foldables are expected to launch in Fall 2026. The 4:3 aspect ratio is better for reading e-books and documents, viewing photographs, or creative tasks like design and image editing, but would result in traditional landscape and portrait videos having ugly black bars at the top and bottom of the screen. This is something that’s already noticeable on Samsung’s squarish Z Fold 7.

Technology

Bionic hand brings baseball star back to the field

Published

7 hours ago

December 22, 2025

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Bionic hand brings baseball star back to the field

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At 18, Jamie Grohsong was living a dream many young athletes chase for years. He was a three-time all-conference shortstop, a Division I college prospect and a player who lived for the game. Then one Fourth of July night in 2023, everything changed. A firework exploded in his hand. In seconds, Jamie lost his pitching hand, his season and what felt like his entire baseball future. The path he had worked toward since childhood disappeared. For a while, Jamie accepted that reality. Baseball, the sport that shaped his identity, was over.

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AI-POWERED BAT TRACKING COULD GIVE BASEBALL PLAYERS THE EDGE

Jamie Grohsong throws a baseball using a bionic prosthetic hand after losing his pitching hand in a fireworks accident. His return shows how technology can help athletes reclaim what they love. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

When technology reopens a closed door

Two years later, Jamie stepped back onto a baseball field wearing something he never imagined using. A bionic prosthetic known as the Ability Hand.

“The fact that I can feel and sense everything to the finest details opened my mind to the possibility of everything that could actually be done,” he told CyberGuy.

The goal was not to recreate the past. It was to find out what might still be possible.

Engineers who build advanced prosthetic hands saw Jamie’s story and reached out with a simple question. What if he did not have to give up the game entirely? That question started an extraordinary journey that blended grit, patience and cutting-edge engineering.

“When building the Ability Hand, we prioritized real-life usage,” Dr. Aadeel Akhtar, founder and CEO of PSYONIC, told CyberGuy. “While we already put the hand through its fair share of stress tests, baseball is a whole different ball game.”

Baseball is definitely a brutal test for any piece of equipment. Throwing requires precise release timing. Hitting demands force, stability and follow-through. At first, nothing came easily.

Learning how to throw again

Throwing a baseball with a bionic hand is not about raw strength. It is about timing and grip. The Ability Hand uses muscle sensors that detect subtle movements in the arm. During a throw, many muscles activate at once, which can cause the hand to open too early. Early throws slipped away. Some felt right. Others did not.

Instead of forcing the hand to grip harder, the PSYONIC team adjusted the technique. Jamie learned to hold the ball lightly and let momentum release it naturally. Small grip changes made a real difference. Slowly, throws began to land. Then they became repeatable. For Jamie, each clean throw rebuilt confidence that had been missing for two years.

3D PRINTED CORNEA RESTORES SIGHT IN WORLD FIRST

A former Division I baseball prospect, Jamie Grohsong steps back onto the field with a bionic hand, redefining what is possible after life-altering injury. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

The surprise moment at Oracle Park

Just as Jamie started throwing again, another door opened. He received an invitation to throw the ceremonial first pitch at the San Francisco Giants’ Oracle Park. It was the team he grew up watching. The timeline was tight. He had barely over a week to prepare.

The pitch was not perfect. That never mattered. Standing on a Major League Baseball field with a bionic hand, Jamie proved something bigger than accuracy. He showed that the game was still part of him. Later, he said the experience taught him that life does not require perfection to be meaningful.

FULLY IMPLANTABLE BRAIN CHIP AIMS TO RESTORE REAL SPEECH

Wearing a multi-articulating bionic hand, Jamie Grohsong proves baseball is still part of his identity two years after a devastating accident. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Can you actually hit with a bionic hand?

Throwing was only part of the challenge. Hitting posed an even bigger question.

“Swinging a bat was a feeling I didn’t think I’d feel again,” Jamie said.

Engineers discovered that bat placement matters more with prosthetics than with natural hands. When the bionic hand serves as the bottom hand on the bat, impact spreads across the fingers. When it sits on top, stress concentrates on the thumb. Jamie bats left-handed, which placed the prosthetic in a safer position. He told CyberGuy, “I can hit with this thing for sure.”

Then came the first swings. The sensation was unfamiliar. The contact felt strange. Still, the bat met the ball. One swing turned into another. Soon, balls started flying deep into the field. Then it happened. Jamie sent one over the fence.

A world-first moment

Those swings marked what many believe to be the first documented home runs hit using a multi-articulating bionic hand. For Jamie, it was more than a technical milestone. It was emotional closure and a new beginning at the same time. He was not trying to prove that prosthetics make athletes better. He was proving that they can help people reconnect with what they love. The bionic hand did not replace his identity. It gave him a new way to express it.

SMART FABRIC MUSCLES COULD CHANGE HOW WE MOVE

Jamie Grohsong learns to throw and hit again with a bionic prosthetic, blending determination with cutting-edge engineering. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

What this story says about resilience and design

Jamie’s comeback highlights a larger truth about modern assistive technology. At its best, design focuses on real-life use rather than lab conditions. Even so, advanced prosthetics remain expensive and imperfect, and they can break under stress. Because of that, users need time, training and patience to adapt. Yet stories like this show how powerful thoughtful engineering can be when it works alongside human determination. Ultimately, this is not about superhero moments but about access, persistence and refusing to let one moment define a lifetime.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

Jamie Grohsong’s journey back to baseball is not a story about beating the odds. It is a story about redefining them. With support, innovation and relentless effort, he found a way back to the field on his own terms. Technology did not give him his old life back. It helped him build a new one that still includes the game he loves.

Has technology ever helped you reconnect with something you thought you had lost? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

Technology

Frozen Waymos backed up San Francisco traffic during a widespread power outage

Published

18 hours ago

December 21, 2025

Press Room

Frozen Waymos backed up San Francisco traffic during a widespread power outage

A power outage struck San Francisco on Saturday that blacked out about 130,000 customers at its peak, according to Pacific Gas and Electric Company, but also caused another problem: stranded Waymo vehicles. Posts all over social media showed the company’s autonomous SUVs sitting still in the streets and causing traffic jams.

Some people posted videos of Teslas using their FSD feature to navigate the same streets, and Elon Musk tweeted that “Tesla Robotaxis were unaffected by the SF power outage.” On Sunday evening, Waymo spokesperson Suzanne Philion said “We are resuming ride-hailing service in the San Francisco Bay Area.”

In response to an inquiry from The Verge, Waymo spokesperson Suzanne Philion sent a statement saying, “We have temporarily suspended our ride-hailing services given the broad power outage in San Francisco. We are focused on keeping our riders safe and ensuring emergency personnel have the clear access they need to do their work.” PG&E reported as of 7AM PT that “Crews have restored about 110,000 customers and PG&E continues to work on restoring the remaining 21,000 customers, primarily in the Presidio, Richmond District, Golden Gate Park and small areas of downtown San Francisco,” as it continued repairs after a fire at a five-story power substation.

After this story was published, Philion sent a second statement:

We are resuming ride-hailing service in the San Francisco Bay Area. Yesterday’s power outage was a widespread event that caused gridlock across San Francisco, with non-functioning traffic signals and transit disruptions. While the failure of the utility infrastructure was significant, we are committed to ensuring our technology adjusts to traffic flow during such events.
“Throughout the outage, we closely coordinated with San Francisco city officials. We are focused on rapidly integrating the lessons learned from this event, and are committed to earning and maintaining the trust of the communities we serve every day.
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Exactly why the cars weren’t moving remains unclear, with no public updates we could find on the company’s social media channels, but speculation centered on spotty wireless data connections, with cell towers either down or overloaded by people who no longer had access to Wi-Fi, and/or the street lights that weren’t operating without power.

These problems have occurred before, though, as seen in TikTok videos from earlier this year showing Waymos frozen by a malfunctioning street light and during a power outage in Austin, Texas. In a reply to a Reddit post showing another similar situation last year, someone saying they were a former employee commented explaining that the vehicle would send a request to a remote assistant and wait for their response before proceeding.

According to a company blog post, it reaches out to a human response agent when the car encounters “unique interactions,” providing them with live and recorded views from its cameras in addition to a 3D map of what the sensors are picking up. However, those may require bandwidth that’s hard to find during a significant power outage. I couldn’t find any statistics on how many remote assistance operators Waymo has available at a given time, but in November, the company announced it passed a third-party audit by Tüv Süd, a German tech inspection company that evaluated its remote assistance program against industry best practices.

Update, December 21st: Added updated statement from Waymo spokesperson Suzanne Philion.