Android Malware Mimicking ChatGPT Apps Targets Smartphone Users: Report

Malware targeting Android devices has been discovered by researchers from Palo Alto Networks Unit 42. The malware is disguised as an AI chatbot application named ChatGPT, which is popular among smartphone users. The malware targets victims who are interested in using ChatGPT, by sending messages to premium-rate numbers based in Thailand. There are currently two types of active malware being used: a Trojan disguised as a “SuperGPT” app and a “ChatGPT” app that sends messages to premium-rate numbers in Thailand. Additionally, the researchers found a malicious Android Package Kit, which was a Trojanised version of a legitimate app. The malware does not target users in any specific country and can be damaging to anyone who downloads it. The malware samples use the OpenAI logo and the ChatGPT icon, causing smartphone users to think it is associated with the ChatGPT AI tool. The researchers warn people not to download applications from untrusted sources and advise the use of updated antivirus software.