Smartphone users beware! This dangerous malware is stealing OTPs and can read WhatsApp chats..

A new and dangerous threat has emerged for Android smartphone users. A new malware named 'Mantax Otax' is capable of everything from stealing users' OTPs to monitoring private chats on WhatsApp and Telegram. This malware can lock the phone and harass users by constantly displaying offensive pop-ups and playing audio and video. Mobile security firm Zimperium discovered this malware, which is reportedly spreading via malicious APK files found outside the Google Play Store.

**Can steal data ranging from OTPs to WhatsApp chats**
According to researchers, the Mantax Otax malware can access various types of private information. It can read SMS notifications, including messages containing One-Time Passwords (OTPs). Additionally, the malware can access call logs, browser history, contacts, installed apps, location data, and information linked to the Google account. By utilizing Android's accessibility settings, it can target WhatsApp profile details and messages, as well as Telegram chats.

**Malware spreading via malicious APK files**
Researchers at the mobile security firm Zimperium identified the Mantax Otax malware. Reports indicate that it spreads through malicious APK files located outside the Google Play Store. It is described as a hybrid of spyware, ransomware, and remote-control tools, allowing attackers to gain various forms of control over the infected phone. The malware requests powerful permissions, such as accessibility access and device administrator privileges. With these permissions, it can perform actions on the user's behalf and transmit phone data to the attackers' servers.

**Can also control screen recording and the camera**
The threat posed by Mantax Otax is not limited to the theft of OTPs and chats. According to researchers, it can utilize Android's media projection feature to take screenshots, record the phone's screen, and even stream the device's live activity. Additionally, this malware is reportedly capable of secretly capturing photos using the phone's front and rear cameras. The captured images can be transmitted directly to the attackers without the user's knowledge. For this reason, the malware poses a serious threat to the privacy and personal data of Android users.

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