Low-income users who have obtained a phone from the government-funded Lifeline program have reported that their devices have been overrun by malware. It appears that the issued phones have been known to push intrusive pop-up ads which are often categorized as malware.
Lifeline Phones Bundled With Intrusive Malware
Low-income users who have obtained a phone from the government-funded Lifeline program have reported that their devices have been overrun by malware. It appears that the issued phones have been known to push intrusive pop-up ads which are often categorized as malware.
The US Government has started its Lifeline program which gives out devices to low-income people. While this federally-funded initiative is seen as a positive measure a news report shows that there have been several issues associated with them. One of the receiving citizens reported that their device is practically overrun with intrusive pop-ups that render them unusable.
The user sent the phone to a security researcher who confirmed that the reason for the pop-ups is preinstalled malware. This model device which is manufactured for the program displays numerous promotional campaigns for various companies and enterprises. It is debatable whether or not the adware has been placed intentionally by the phone’s manufacturer in order to gain additional income from the users.
The intrusive malware has been identified to be present in four different modifications. It is possible to disable the code but this requires the following of a complex procedure that involves the use of special software that needs to be run from a computer via a USB connection to the phones.
One of the possible reasons for the malware installation is a not-so thorough analysis of the apps choice which will be preloaded to the devices. Upon launching some applications may deliver the intrusive advertising as part of the behavior sequence.
Martin Beltov
Martin graduated with a degree in Publishing from Sofia University. As a cyber security enthusiast he enjoys writing about the latest threats and mechanisms of intrusion.
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Mallware on all government phones do not use then I got proof many that way