Telegram EvilVideo Malware Alert: Hackers Exploiting Security Flaw to Send Harmful Files Disguised as Videos, Here's How to Protect Your Mobile Phone From Being Compromised

Mumbai, July 24: Telegram recently had a critical security flaw, 'EvilVideo', that allowed the hackers a window to send harmful files to the users through chats. The files sent by the hackers allowed them to disguise the malicious apps as normal videos. The EvilVideo security flaw was seen in the Telegram version 10.14.5. Telegram EvilVideo Malware could also hurt the users who access the platform without knowing how to safeguard their smartphones. 

The ESET cybersecurity firm's researchers identified the Telegram security flaw and named it 'EvilVideo.' ESET posted a video on YouTube titled "Unmasking the Telegram Exploit..." showing the EvilVideo security flaw. The team downloaded what appeared to be a 30-second ghost-face video on their device. Telegram Security Update: Cloud-Based Instant Messaging App Fixes Security Issues, Urges Android Users To Update App

ESET Revealed EvilVideo Security Flaw in Telegram, Watch Video:

Once downloaded, the ESET team clicked on it to play, and it showed, "Telegram was unable to play this video. Try to play it with the external player?" When the users agreed to this command, it took them to the direct APK installation process and began the installation of the "xHamster Premium Mod" application. However, Telegram provided instructions to update the app from 10.14.15 to the latest version. Here's a list of steps to follow to protect your mobile phone from being compromised.

Steps To Protect Your Mobile Phone From EvilVideo-Like Malware

Once you install the APK of any application in your device from third-party sources, it will ask for various permissions. Once you give permission, hackers can access your files, storage, and data and even compromise your device and its security. Here's what you need to do to keep your mobile safe from EvilVideo-like malware attempts, 

• Update Telegram App

The first step to avoid the EvilVideo malware is to update the Telegram app and use the latest version, making the hackers ineffective up to a certain extent,

• Avoid Clicking on Suspicious Videos

You need to avoid clicking on suspicious-looking videos or those that seem enticing. These videos could also include movies, personal videos, crypto-related videos, or personal videos shared by someone.

• Install Antivirus, Malware or Adware Detector App

Installing a reliable antivirus app on your smartphone can detect malware and adware in your system. Once detected, these antivirus apps can help you remove the malicious apps from your mobile phone.

• Avoid Joining Suspicious Groups, Individuals  

Once you join the Telegram channels or talk to people who promote illegal or suspicious activities,  they will share files to hack your smartphone. 

• Do Not Give Permissions

Once you begin installing an application, you must avoid giving critical permissions for storage, location, and access to other smartphone functions.

• Do Not Execute and Delete the File From System: 

If you accidentally downloaded EvilVideo malware or a similar suspicious file or app on your mobile phone, you must delete it as soon as possible. It is best not to execute such files to discover if they contain viruses. Cybersecurity Tips 2024: Know How To Protect Your Smartphone, Computers From Data Theft Attempts Initiated by Hackers.

Sometimes, the files you download come with a layer of disguise that may be hard to spot at once. However, after you install these files, they are often hard to remove and can affect multiple functions of your device and even compromise its security. Hackers could trigger it to steal your financial details and money or do worse, like selling your private data.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 24, 2024 05:28 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).