G700 Android Malware: Removal and Prevention

G700 is a high-end Remote Access Trojan (RAT) that targets Android devices, causing a range of malicious activities, including data theft, spying, financial theft, and system infections. This trojan, a more advanced variant of the CraxsRAT, employs the Android Accessibility Services to escalate privileges and perform a wide array of harmful operations. In this article, we’ll explore the nature of the G700 malware, its detection names, symptoms of infection, the potential damage it can cause, and how to remove it from your device. Additionally, we’ll discuss preventive methods to avoid future infections.

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G700 Malware Overview

The G700 malware is an Android-targeting RAT, written in Java and C#, capable of gaining full control over infected devices. Once installed, the malware exploits Android’s Accessibility Services to manipulate various device functionalities. These services are designed to help users with disabilities interact with their devices more easily, but when exploited by G700, they enable the malware to carry out malicious activities, such as stealing sensitive data, spying on the user, and even deploying ransomware.

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Summary of G700 Malware Details

Attribute	Details
Threat Type	Android malware, Remote Access Trojan (RAT), Spyware, Financial Theft
Detection Names	Avast-Mobile (Android:Evo-gen [Trj]), DrWeb (Android.SpyMax.37.origin), ESET-NOD32 (Android/Spy.SpyMax.T), Kaspersky (HEUR:Trojan-Spy.AndroidOS.SpyNote.bv)
Symptoms of Infection	Slow device performance, modified settings without user consent, appearance of unfamiliar apps, excessive data usage, rapid battery drain
Distribution Methods	Malicious email attachments, social engineering, deceptive apps, malicious online ads, scam websites
Damage	Stolen personal information (logins, passwords, messages), financial loss (including stolen identities), ransomware deployment, degraded device performance
Danger Level	High (due to financial theft, personal data theft, and remote control)

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G700 Malware Functionalities and Capabilities

G700 is an advanced RAT with many malicious capabilities. Its functionalities can be divided into several key categories, including data-stealing, financial theft, surveillance, and system damage. Let’s take a closer look at these functions:

Data Stealing

• Sensitive Information Capture: G700 can intercept and record SMS messages, including two-factor authentication (2FA) codes, and login credentials for various services.
• Keylogging: The RAT logs keystrokes, capturing everything the victim types, including passwords and other sensitive data.
• Overlay Attacks: By using fake login screens (e.g., phishing attempts), G700 can steal login credentials, credit card information, and other sensitive data when users interact with legitimate-looking apps.

Surveillance

• Camera Control: G700 can activate the device’s front and back cameras to record video without the user’s knowledge.
• Audio Recording: The RAT can also activate the device’s microphone, recording conversations.
• Screen Live-streaming: G700 can even stream the infected device’s screen in real-time to cybercriminals, enabling them to monitor the victim’s actions.

Financial Theft

• Clipper Functionality: G700 has the ability to alter the recipient address in cryptocurrency transactions. During active transactions, it can replace the intended address with that of the attacker’s wallet, facilitating crypto theft.
• Phishing for Banking Information: G700 has been used in overlay attacks targeting e-commerce platforms, email clients, banking apps, and cryptocurrency wallets.

System Damage

• Ransomware Deployment: Although not its primary function, G700 has the potential to deploy ransomware on infected devices.
• Device Resource Drain: The malware causes significant battery drain, increased data usage, and slower device performance, making it highly disruptive to users.

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How to Remove G700 Malware?

If you suspect that your Android device is infected with G700, immediate action is necessary to protect your data and device. Follow these steps to remove the malware:

Step 1: Enter Safe Mode

• Safe Mode disables third-party apps, allowing you to identify and remove the malicious app without interference.
• To enter Safe Mode:
  • Press and hold the power button on your device.
  • When the power options appear, tap and hold the “Power Off” option until the “Safe Mode” prompt appears, then tap “OK.”

Step 2: Uninstall Malicious Apps

• Go to Settings > Apps > All Apps and look for suspicious apps.
• If you see any unfamiliar apps or apps you don’t recall installing, tap on the app and select Uninstall.

Step 3: Install Anti-Malware Software

• Download and install a reputable mobile antivirus app like Avast Mobile Security, Dr.Web, or ESET Mobile Security.
• Run a full scan and allow the antivirus software to remove any detected threats, including G700.

Step 4: Clear Cache and Data

Sometimes, malware may hide in cached data or app data. Go to Settings > Apps > All Apps, select the suspicious app, and tap Clear Cache and Clear Data to remove any remnants of the infection.

Step 5: Factory Reset (If Necessary)

• If the malware persists, perform a factory reset to restore your device to its original state. Be sure to back up your important data beforehand, as this will erase all data on your device.
• To reset your device: Go to Settings > System > Reset > Factory Data Reset.

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Preventive Methods for Avoiding G700 Infections

To avoid future infections from G700 or similar malware, follow these preventive measures:

1. Avoid Installing Apps from Untrusted Sources: Always download apps from official sources like the Google Play Store. Be cautious when downloading APK files from third-party websites.
2. Enable Play Protect: Google Play Protect helps detect and prevent malicious apps from being installed on your device. Ensure that it is enabled in Settings > Google > Security > Google Play Protect.
3. Keep Your Device and Apps Updated: Regularly update your Android device and installed apps to patch known vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malware.
4. Use Strong Authentication: Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts, particularly for sensitive services like banking and email. This will provide an additional layer of security.
5. Be Cautious of Phishing Attacks: Be wary of suspicious emails, links, or messages, especially those claiming to be from banks, e-commerce sites, or other sensitive services. Avoid entering your credentials on unfamiliar websites.
6. Install Security Software: Use a reliable security solution to scan your device regularly and keep it protected against threats like G700.

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Conclusion

G700 is a sophisticated Android malware that can cause significant damage, including personal data theft, financial loss, and system compromise. Its abilities to spy on users, steal sensitive information, and perform financial fraud make it a high-risk threat. However, by following the steps outlined above, you can remove G700 from your device and take preventive actions to avoid similar infections in the future.