Technology
What you need to know about VajraSpy RAT, the cyber espionage tool that infiltrated Google Play
You might think that downloading an app from the app store is safe and easy, right? Well, not always. Sometimes, you might actually end up with a nasty surprise: an app that is actually spyware hiding behind a fake name and icon.
That’s what the VajraSpy RAT does. It’s a Trojan that targets Android devices and steals your data without you knowing. This is a real threat that has affected many Android users.
Although VajraSpy has been removed from the Google Play Store, it’s still lurking out there on third-party app stores. Also, VajraSpy and the Patchwork APT group behind it are still active. They may attempt to infiltrate other platforms or modify their tactics to evade Google’s detection in the future.
To protect yourself, here’s what you need to know about VajraSpy RAT, the cyber espionage tool that’s infiltrated Google Play on Android.
CLICK TO GET KURT’S FREE CYBERGUY NEWSLETTER WITH SECURITY ALERTS, QUICK VIDEO TIPS, TECH REVIEWS AND EASY HOW-TO’S TO MAKE YOU SMARTER
Illustration of a hacker (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
What is cyber espionage tool VajraSpy RAT?
VajraSpy is a remote access Trojan (RAT), which is a type of malware that’s designed to allow an attacker to control an infected device remotely. To get the RAT on your devices, scammers need you to download it to your system. Once the RAT is running on a compromised system — in this case, your Android — the attacker can send commands to it and receive data back in response.
MORE: HOW TO CHANGE YOUR PRIVACY SETTINGS ON YOUR ANDROID DEVICES
What are some of cyber espionage tool VajraSpy’s capabilities?
Some of VajraSpy’s capabilities are accessing and taking your contacts, photos and messages. This even includes encrypted messages like those on WhatsApp. Also, searching and exfiltrating documents, images, audio and other types of files.
In addition, it can listen in on and record your phone calls (if granted the appropriate permissions) and activate your device’s camera to take pictures, turning it into a surveillance tool.
A person on social media on their Android (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
MORE: BEWARE OF NEW ANDROID MALWARE HIDING IN POPULAR APPS
How does cyber espionage tool VajraSpy RAT get onto your Android device?
VajraSpy gets onto an unsuspecting victim’s device via a malicious app. When the RAT was first discovered, it was on apps that were found on Google Play sometime between April 1, 2021, through Sept. 10, 2023.
ESET researchers uncovered the campaign report in 2022 when Patchwork APT — a hacking group primarily targeting people in Pakistan that’s been around since 2015 — exposed their campaign after unintentionally infecting their own infrastructure with another RAT they were experimenting with.
When this was leaked and VajraSpy was discovered, the infected apps on Google Play were taken down. But they can still be found in third-party apps, with some still getting through to Google Play anyway.
What are the third-party apps?
VajraSpy has been disguising itself primarily in news and messaging apps on Android. Some of the apps that researchers know about include:
- Rafaqat رفاقت
- Privee Talk
- Chit Chat
- Hello Chat
- YohooTalk
- MeetMe
- Let’s Chat
- Quick Chat
- TikTalk
- Nidus
- GlowChat
- Wave Chat
Google Play Protect protects users by automatically removing apps known to contain this malware on Android devices with Google Play Services. However, it is important to note that Google Play Protect may not be enough. Historically, it isn’t 100% foolproof at removing all known malware from Android devices. If, for some reason, you still see these apps on your phone, be sure to manually uninstall them.
How to uninstall apps on Android
Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer.
- Open the Settings app
- Scroll down and select Apps
- Tap on the app you want to delete and select Uninstall
- Confirm your choice by tapping OK or Uninstall again
Have good antivirus software on all your devices
We also recommend going beyond Google Play Protect to keep yourself from having your data breached. As we all know, free is not always the way to go, especially when we are talking about antivirus protection. Keeping hackers out of your devices can be prevented if you have good antivirus software installed. Find my review of Best Antivirus Protection here.
How to keep yourself safe from cyber espionage tool VajraSpy RAT and other Trojans
Remember, the bad guys behind VajraSpy and similar malware perpetrators are pretty quick. They keep infecting new apps with this Trojan, so always keep an eye out by using the following tips:
Tip #1 – To avoid getting your Android infiltrated by VajraSpy RAT, don’t download any apps that are recommended by someone you don’t know or don’t know well. And if the message does come from someone you know, always be a little skeptical, especially if you have never heard of the app.
Tip #2 – Make sure to only download apps from reputable app stores you’re familiar with, too. Keep in mind, though, that these bad actors are able to get new apps to slip through the cracks of Google Play time and time again. Therefore, it’s important to employ a mix of different strategies to keep yourself safe.
Tip #3 – One way to know whether or not an app is safe is by looking at how many downloads it has. If it has a small number of downloads, chances are it could be a scam. Also, look at how many reviews it has and what those reviews are and do a quick check to see if someone mentioned it as a scam or not. A good rule of thumb is if you don’t need it, and you’re not sure, don’t download it.
The good news is that compared to other spyware apps, VajraSpy hasn’t been that successful. We know this by looking at the amount of downloads/installations of the apps it disguises itself as. That being said, those third-party app stores where you can still find a lot of these malicious apps don’t track downloads well, so it’s hard to know how many victims fell for VajraSpy there.
A man on his Android phone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
MORE: BEWARE OF THIS MCAFEE GOOGLE CHROME AD SCAM
Kurt’s key takeaways
Though there are much bigger scams to be concerned with, letting your guard down could make you more vulnerable to attacks like this cyber espionage tool called VajraSpy RAT. To protect your Android and your data, just remember to be cautious if you see an invitation to download a messaging app from someone you don’t know well. Also, invest in antivirus software to protect your Android.
Have you ever received a strange message that asked you to download an app? What happened? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.
For more of my tech tips & security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.
Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover.
Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:
Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.
Technology
Microsoft’s Edge Copilot update uses AI to pull information from across your tabs
Microsoft Edge is adding a new feature that will allow its Copilot AI chatbot to gather information from all of your open tabs. When you start a conversation with Copilot, you can ask the chatbot questions about what’s in your tabs, compare the products you’re looking at, summarize your open articles, and more.
In its announcement, Microsoft says you can “select which experiences you want or leave off the ones you don’t.” The company is retiring Copilot Mode as well, which could similarly draw information from your tabs but offered some agentic features, like the ability to book a reservation on your behalf. Microsoft has since folded these agentic capabilities into its “Browse with Copilot” tool.
Several other AI features are coming to Edge, including an AI-powered “Study and Learn” mode that can turn the article you’re looking at into a study session or interactive quiz. There’s a new tool that turns your tabs into AI-powered podcasts as well, similar to what you’d find on NotebookLM, and an AI writing assistant that will pop up when you start entering text on a webpage.
You can also give Copilot permission to access your browsing history to provide more “relevant, high-quality answers,” according to Microsoft. Copilot in Edge on desktop and mobile will come with “long-term memory” as well, which can tailor its responses based on your previous conversations. And, when you open up a new tab, you’ll see a redesigned page that combines chat, search, and web navigation, along with the Journeys feature, which uses AI to organize your browsing history into categories that you can revisit.
Meanwhile, an update to Edge’s mobile app will allow you to share your screen with Copilot and talk through the questions about what you’re seeing. Microsoft says you’ll see “clear visual cues” when Copilot is active, “so you know when it’s taking an action, helping, listening, or viewing.”
Technology
Apple’s $250M Siri settlement: Are you owed cash?
NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!
If you bought a newer iPhone because Apple made Siri sound like it was about to become your personal artificial intelligence sidekick, you may want to pay attention.
Apple has agreed to pay $250 million to settle a class-action lawsuit over claims that it misled customers about new Apple Intelligence and Siri features. The case centers on the iPhone 16 launch and certain iPhone 15 models that were marketed as ready for Apple’s next wave of AI. The settlement still needs court approval, and Apple denies wrongdoing.
The lawsuit argues that Apple promoted a smarter, more personal Siri before those features were actually available. For some buyers, that was a big deal. A new iPhone can cost hundreds of dollars, and many people upgrade only when they think they are getting something meaningfully new.
Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
- Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox.
- For simple, real-world ways to spot scams early and stay protected, visit CyberGuy.com – trusted by millions who watch CyberGuy on TV daily.
- Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide free when you join.
WHY IPHONE USERS ARE THE NEW PRIME SCAM TARGETS
U.S. buyers of certain iPhone 16 and iPhone 15 Pro models may qualify for payments if a judge approves Apple’s proposed settlement. (Getty Images)
What Apple is accused of promising
Apple introduced Apple Intelligence in June 2024 and promoted it as a major step forward for iPhone, iPad and Mac. A key part of that pitch was a more personalized Siri that could understand context, work across apps and help with everyday tasks in a more useful way.
The lawsuit claims Apple’s marketing made consumers believe those advanced Siri features would arrive with the iPhone 16 or soon after. Instead, buyers received phones that had some Apple Intelligence tools, but not the full Siri overhaul that many expected.
That gap is the heart of the case. Plaintiffs say customers bought or upgraded devices based on AI features that were not ready. Apple says it has rolled out many Apple Intelligence features and settled the case, so it can stay focused on its products.
How much money could iPhone owners get?
The proposed settlement creates a $250 million fund. Eligible customers who file approved claims are expected to receive at least $25 per eligible device. That amount could rise to as much as $95 per device, depending on how many people file claims and other settlement factors.
That means this will not be a huge payday for most people. Still, if you bought one of the covered phones, it may be worth watching for a claim notice. A few minutes of paperwork could put some money back in your pocket.
Which iPhones may qualify?
The proposed settlement covers U.S. buyers who purchased any iPhone 16 model, iPhone 15 Pro or iPhone 15 Pro Max between June 10, 2024, and March 29, 2025.
Covered iPhone 16 models include the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max and iPhone 16e. The settlement also includes the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, but not every iPhone 15 model.
The key details are the device model, the purchase date and whether the phone was bought in the United States.
HOW YOU CAN GET A SLICE OF APPLE’S $250M IPHONE SETTLEMENT
Apple has agreed to pay $250 million to settle claims it misled customers about Apple Intelligence and Siri features on newer iPhones. (Michael Nagle/Bloomberg)
How will you file a claim?
You do not need to do anything immediately. The settlement still needs a judge’s approval. Once the claims process opens, eligible customers are expected to receive a notice by email or mail with instructions on how to file through a settlement website.
That notice matters because scammers love moments like this. A real settlement notice should not ask for your Apple ID password, bank login or payment to claim your money. If you receive a message about this settlement, do not click blindly. Go slowly, check the sender and look for the official settlement administrator details once they are available.
Why this case matters beyond one Siri feature
This case hits a bigger nerve. Tech companies are racing to sell AI as the next must-have feature. That creates a problem for shoppers. You are often asked to buy now based on what a company says will arrive later.
That can be frustrating when the feature is the reason you upgraded. A smarter Siri sounds useful. A phone that can understand your personal context, search across apps and help with daily tasks could save time. But if those tools are delayed, limited or missing, the value of the upgrade changes.
This settlement also sends a message about AI marketing. Companies can talk about future features, but consumers need clear timing and plain explanations. “Coming soon” can mean very different things when you are spending $800, $1,000 or more.
We reached out to Apple for comment, but did not hear back before our deadline.
FIRST 15 THINGS TO DO OR TRY FIRST WHEN YOU GET A NEW IPHONE
Apple denies wrongdoing but agreed to settle claims tied to its marketing of Apple Intelligence and Siri features. (Qilai Shen/Bloomberg)
What this means to you
If you bought a covered iPhone during the settlement period, keep an eye on your email and regular mail. You may qualify for a payment if the court approves the deal.
You should also keep your receipt or proof of purchase if you have it. Your Apple purchase history, carrier account or retailer receipt may help if the claim process asks for details.
More broadly, this is a reminder to treat AI features like any other big tech promise. Before you upgrade, ask one simple question: Can the feature do what is being advertised today, or is the company asking me to wait?
That question can save you from buying a device for a future feature that may arrive much later than expected.
Take my quiz: How safe is your online security?
Think your devices and data are truly protected? Take this quick quiz to see where your digital habits stand. From passwords to Wi-Fi settings, you’ll get a personalized breakdown of what you’re doing right and what needs improvement. Take my quiz here: CyberGuy.com.
Kurt’s key takeaways
Apple has built its brand on making technology feel polished, personal and easy to use. That is why this Siri settlement hits a nerve. People were buying phones they use every day for texts, photos, directions, reminders and everything in between. Many expected AI to make those everyday tasks easier, which is why the delay felt frustrating. The proposed payout may be modest, but the bigger issue is trust. When a company sells AI as a reason to upgrade, customers deserve to know what actually works now and what is still coming later.
Would you still buy a new phone for promised AI features, or would you wait until they actually show up? Let us know by writing to us at CyberGuy.com.
Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP
- Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox.
- For simple, real-world ways to spot scams early and stay protected, visit CyberGuy.com – trusted by millions who watch CyberGuy on TV daily.
- Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide free when you join.
Copyright 2026 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.
Technology
Instagram hits the copy button again with new disappearing Instants photos
Instagram is once again cribbing from competitors like Snapchat and BeReal with a new photo-sharing format it calls “Instants,” which are ephemeral photos that you can’t edit and that you can only share with your close friends or followers that follow you back. Instants are available globally beginning on Wednesday as a feature in the inbox in the Instagram app and as a separate app that’s now in testing in select countries.
To access Instants from the Instagram app, go to your DM inbox and look in the bottom-right corner for an icon or a stack of photos. After you post a photo, your friends can emoji react to it and send a reply to your DMs, but after they see it, the photo disappears for them. Instants also disappear after 24 hours, and they can’t be captured in screenshots or screen recordings.
However, your Instants will remain in an archive for you for up to a year, and you can reshare them as a recap to your Instagram Stories if you’d like. You can also undo sending an Instant right after you post it or delete it from your archive.
The Instants mobile app, which popped up in Italy and Spain in April, gives you “immediate access to the camera” and only requires an Instagram account, Instagram says. “Instants you share on the separate app will show up for friends on Instagram and vice versa. We’re trying this separate app out to see how our community uses it, and we’ll continue to evolve it as we learn more.”
Instagram, in its testing, has seen that people “tend to use Instants to share much more casual, much more authentic moments about their day,” according to Instagram boss Adam Mosseri. “And we know that this type of sharing of personal moments with friends is a core part of what makes Instagram Instagram, but we also know that a lot of people don’t really share a lot to their profile grids anymore.”
-
New York1 hour agoFlag With Swastika and Star of David Flown on N.Y.U. Building, Police Say
-
Los Angeles, Ca1 hour agoEarly morning Montebello fire leaves resident critically injured
-
Detroit, MI2 hours agoWhat big announcement at DPSCD Hall of Fame Gala could mean for Detroit students
-
San Francisco, CA2 hours agoCasting shade on shadows: S.F. supervisor seeks to bar using shadows to block new housing
-
Dallas, TX2 hours agoDallas Approves $180,500 for New Botham Jean Boulevard Street Signs
-
Miami, FL2 hours agoMiami residents sue over land for Trump presidential library
-
Boston, MA2 hours agoBoston has a secret society built on opium money in ‘The Society’
-
Denver, CO2 hours agoDenver weather: Nearing record highs again