Symantec identifies the first ransomware targeting Android devices

Symantec, the software security solutions provider has identified the first "ransomware" targeting mobile devices. This type of threat is a variant of rogue security software usually infecting PCs. 
"Android.Fakedefender" is the name of ransomware targeting mobile platforms. It is distributed through malicious programs downloaded from the online application store and like other "ransomwares" this program has the ability to block a smartphone or tablet "until a ransom is paid". 


"It can prevent launch of applications on the smartphone or change the settings of it to make impossibe restore a terminal to factory settings"says Symantec. 

The proliferation of fake antivirus targeting the mobile platforms: 

"The fake antiviruses (known as" FakeAV ") and ransomwares are now targeting mobile devices". The "FakeAV" is a form of fraud involving the use of malicious software that modifies the security status of a terminal in order to convince the user to purchase a full version of a software (fake antivirus) to address non-existing infections . 

Learn more: The press release from Symantec