Recently found in the Android platform, remote access trojan named Cellik has been recognized as a serious mobile threat, using the Google Play integration feature to mask itself within legitimate applications to evade detection by security solutions.
Cellik is advertised as a malware-as-a-service (MaaS) in the cybercrime forums, with membership rates beginning at approximately $150 a month. One of the most frightening facets of the malware is the fact that it allows malicious payloads to be injected into legitimate Google Play applications, which can be easily installed.
Once it is installed, Cellik provides complete control over the target device for the attacker. Operators can remotely stream the target device’s screen live, as well as access all files, receive notifications, and even use a stealthy browser to surf websites and enter form data without the target’s awareness. The malware also comes equipped with an app inject functionality that enables attackers to superimpose login screens on normal applications such as bank or email apps and harvest login and other sensitive data.
Cellik Play Store integration also includes an automated APK builder, so the perpetrators of this crimeware can now browse the store for apps, choose popular apps, and pack them with the Cellik payload in one click bundling it together with the cellik payload. The perpetrators of this attack claim that this allows them to bypass Google Play Protect and other device-based security scanners, but Google has not independently verified this.
Android users should heed the words of security experts and not sideload APKs from unknown sources, keep Play Protect enabled at all times, be very judicious about app permissions, and keep an eye out for anything strange on their phones that might be harmful. Since Cellik is a groundbreaking new development in Android malware, both users and the security community should be vigilant to ensure their sensitive data and device integrity are not compromised.
