Virus 'penalizes' users of pirated applications on smartphones

Walkinwat is the first dangerous software on mobile phones launched with the purpose of teaching users not to download unauthorized files.

Like most threats, Android.Walkinwat virus hides itself in a legitimate application called Walk and Text (a program that is being sold on the Android Market). After being downloaded and installed in the device, the virus will try to collect and send information such as the name, phone number, EMEI . of the smartphone owner to the external server.

In addition, this fake application also sends SMS messages to all phone book contacts with the content: " Hey, I just downloaded pirated software from the Internet, it is Walk and Text. I'm really cheap Money and stupidity because it only has 1 USD .

SMS messages sent to friends in the phone book of smartphone users.

Finally, the virus left a message to remind users to check their phone bills, and recommended that they remember to buy a legal Walk and Text version on the Android Market.

Warning of virus authors with users. Photo: Symantec.

Representatives from security firm Symantec said Android.Walkinwat is appearing on many file-sharing websites in the US and Asia. This is the first case where the virus was born on the phone to judge users' piracy.