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Android.Locker.38.origin

Added to the Dr.Web virus database: 2015-03-18

Virus description added:

A ransomware program that locks Android devices and demands a ransome for their unlocking. Distributed under in the guise of a system update.

When launched, the program mimics updating progress and attempts to gain access to the device's administrative features, removes its icon from the home screen and awaits intruders' instructions.

screen screen screen

Control interface

Intruders facilitate control over the malware via SMS that may contain the following commands:

  • set_lock – lock the device.
  • set_lock – Unlock the device.
  • send_sms – send an SMS.
  • send_all – send SMS-messages to all contacts found in the phone book.
  • set_admin – Specifies the phone number to send reports to.
  • gitler_dead – remove itself.
  • set_filtr – create a filter to intercept incoming messages.
  • set_url – replace the address of the control server with one specified as the command parameter.

Lock device

Once the command set_lock, or a directive from a control server located at http://[xxx]tz.in/mod_admin/ is received, Android.Locker.38.origin locks the device and displays a ransom demand.

screen

If the device's user attempts to revoke the administrative privileges from the malware, the locker will switch the device into the standby mode and once the lock screen is removed, it will display a false warning about the impending removal of all the data stored on the device.

screen

When the user taps OK, Android.Locker.38.origin will switch the device to the standby mode again and set 12345 as the screen unlock password.

SMS-bot

The program can also send various messages whose recipients can include all the contacts available in the phone book.

Curing recommendations


Android

  1. If the mobile device is operating normally, download and install Dr.Web for Android Light. Run a full system scan and follow recommendations to neutralize the detected threats.
  2. If the mobile device has been locked by Android.Locker ransomware (the message on the screen tells you that you have broken some law or demands a set ransom amount; or you will see some other announcement that prevents you from using the handheld normally), do the following:
    • Load your smartphone or tablet in the safe mode (depending on the operating system version and specifications of the particular mobile device involved, this procedure can be performed in various ways; seek clarification from the user guide that was shipped with the device, or contact its manufacturer);
    • Once you have activated safe mode, install the Dr.Web для Android Light onto the infected handheld and run a full scan of the system; follow the steps recommended for neutralizing the threats that have been detected;
    • Switch off your device and turn it on as normal.

Find out more about Dr.Web for Android