Google has issued a warning over a new powerful spyware download which is targeting both Android and Apple device users. Benoit Sevens, and Clement Lecigne of Google's Threat Analysis Group have urged phone and tablet users to beware of the new threat, called Hermit.
Hermit is reported to have been used by foreign state-sponsored operatives to target specific individuals. Once installed it can log your calls, record audio, read your emails and text messages, harvest your pictures and videos and track your location.
According to TechCrunch, Hermit works on all versions of Android, and can grant itself even more privileges on your device. The malware will load itself onto your device if you follow the link in a fake text message. google has obtained a copy of the malware designed for Apple devices.
Google said all the attacks started with a unique link. They added: "Once clicked, the page attempted to get the user to download and install a malicious application on either Android or iOS. In some cases, we believe the actors worked with the target’s ISP to disable the target’s mobile data connectivity.
"Once disabled, the attacker would send a malicious link via SMS asking the target to install an application to recover their data connectivity."
Google has started contacting people whose devices have been infected. Apple is working on a fix for the security breaches that allowed the malware to be installed.
In a blog post, Google said it has so far identified victims in Italy and Kazakhstan.
