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Android TV Boxes Infected With Vo1d Malware
- Written by Kiara Fabbri Former Tech News Writer
- Fact-Checked by Justyn Newman Former Lead Cybersecurity Editor
On Thursday, security experts from Doctor Web revealed the discovery of a new Android-based malware, dubbed Android.Vo1d, which has infected nearly 1.3 million devices across 197 countries.
The malware primarily targets streaming TV boxes, utilizing vulnerabilities in outdated Android versions. According to Doctor Web, the infection has spread widely, with the largest number of cases being detected in countries such as Brazil, Morocco, and Russia.
The Android.Vo1d malware acts as a backdoor, embedding itself within the system storage area of affected devices. Once in place, it allows attackers to remotely command the device, installing third-party software without the user’s knowledge.
The Hacker News (THN) notes that the source of the infection remains unknown, but it is suspected to be related to either compromised devices or the use of unofficial firmware. The malware is known to replace the “debuggerd” daemon file and introduce new files containing malicious code.
Forbes reports that the malware is particularly persistent, running scripts that enable it to survive reboots and continue its malicious activities.
The attack does not target Android TV devices specifically, but focuses on off-brand streaming boxes running older versions of the Android Open Source Project (AOSP), as noted by Forbes.
One reason for the widespread infection is that many TV boxes run on outdated Android versions, which are more vulnerable to attacks due to unpatched vulnerabilities. These older versions are often used by budget device manufacturers to make their products more attractive.
Users of TV boxes may mistakenly believe these devices are better protected than smartphones, leading them to neglect installing anti-virus software or downloading unofficial firmware. This can increase their risk of infection, as noted by Forbes.
Google has confirmed that the infected TV models were not Play Protect certified, meaning they did not undergo rigorous security testing. The company advises users to only purchase devices that are Play Protect certified to ensure their safety, as reported by TNH.
It is important for users to keep their devices updated with the latest security patches and avoid downloading apps from untrusted sources. Installing anti-virus software can also help protect against malware infections.
Photo by Jonathan Kemper on Unsplash
Microsoft Lays Off Around 650 Employees from Xbox Gaming Unit
- Written by Andrea Miliani Former Tech News Expert
- Fact-Checked by Justyn Newman Former Lead Cybersecurity Editor
Microsoft announced this Thursday that it will cut off around 650 roles from its Xbox gaming division. According to CNBC , the CEO of Microsoft Gaming, Phil Spencer, sent a memo to employees informing them about the decision this week.
“We are deeply grateful for the contributions of our colleagues who are learning they are impacted,” said Spencer in the document CNBC verified.
According to the information shared by the CEO, most of the roles being cut out are from supporting and corporate positions. It was also clarified that no devices, games, studios, or gaming experiences would be affected by this change. In previous layoffs, studios have been affected, but not this time.
This would be the third round of layoffs since the acquisition of Activision Blizzard for $69 billion in October last year. This new cut was focused on reducing redundancies, aligning the new merged team, and focusing on long-term goals.
“In the US, we’re supporting them with exit packages that include severance, extended healthcare, and outplacement services to help with their transition; outside the US packages will differ according to location,” said Spencer.
According to the BBC, this new layoff represents 3% of the gaming staff. Spencer mentioned that he knew it would be “difficult” for many workers and acknowledged and thanked their contribution to Xbox.
After the pandemic, the gaming industry has faced multiple layoffs including companies like Sony’s Playstation. However, while Xbox device sales have fallen, according to recent reports, Microsoft has mentioned that gaming revenues have increased, especially after the purchase of Activision-Blizzard—which produces popular games like Overwatch, World of Warcraft, and Diablo.
A few months ago, Microsoft also announced higher prices for its Xbox Game Pass subscription services.
Other tech companies also announced layoffs this week. Bending Spoons announced on Monday that it will cut 75% of WeTransfer’s staff .
