Originally published at: Millions of Android TV Devices Infected with Secret Malware
New research reveals that over a million Android-based TV boxes, tablets, projectors, and car infotainment systems are infected with hidden malware. These compromised devices are being used for cybercrime without their owners realizing it. Security experts uncovered a large-scale cybercrime operation known as Badbox 2.0. This scheme infects inexpensive Android-based devices, adding them to a…
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That is exactly why I got (2) FORMULER Z Pro’s and (1) Onn box
I have an ONN. 4K pro.Shield pro and a few firesticks, two of which have failed. I’ve tried a couple inexpensive Android streamers but didn’t like the interfaces so I gave them away.
How can I determine if there is any malware installed on any device? I tend not to download any of the bloatware apps but I suspect removing them from the menu is not the same as deleting them.
Troy,
I was wondering, would rooting the box or installing new firmware or both, fix this problem? Making the box usable without the potential threats.
I have three T95Z’s (or whatever they’re called). The only thing I’ve installed on them are programs recommended by Troy. Should I worry about the preinstalled programs?
I guess there is no way of knowing if you have any of the infected devices - there are members of this forum who have been using T95Z devices for several years without any issues.
I tried “cheap” android box and hated it, switched to Formuler Z7 because it included a great IPTV app and had updates - now have Z8 / Z11 boxes.
What a coincidence! I just posted about my cheap Chinese tablet popping up ads every time I open an app.
My boxes are Highmedia and still work great. I wanted something more portable than my laptop so I bought a tablet. I’ve spent the last week researching and trying to stop the ads and get rid of the offending apps. I’m not an Android guy but now I know how to remove system apps without rooting the device. It’s been fun and frustrating.
Even if you walk into a reputable store there’s no way to know if the device has malware on it. They’re all made in China. Best chance is to stick with known brands if you can afford it.
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I have seen these stories about cheap chinese boxes having Malware for many years. I have 2 T95Z Plus boxes I used for 6+ years (Retired now and use the ONN 4K Pro) that I never cleaned never had an issue. These articles surface every few months on various forums. BUT what I have never seen is an actual end user saying they found said Malware on their box. Think about it. You have Apps on these boxes. If someone wants to perform a crime or steal something from your apps? Have at it
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It took some work but I did eventually find the culprits. I don’t have anything personal on the tablet, no email or social media. I even disabled the camera app. I just don’t want ads popping up every time I open an app.
Probably not Malware. Some of the (Junk) Free apps are designed with commercials. That’s why I don’t use them. KODI or Stremio only
Wow and wow. After seeing this thread I decided to install Malwarebytes on my new SK1 box as I had not yet performed a malware/adware/ Spyware scan. All apps I have installed are ones I considered safe and/or had paid for like Tivimate. After installing Malwarebytes and setting it up, I ran a full scan after database updated, and I’ll be damned if it didn’t find malware apk on the SK1. I must admit that got my heartrate racing and I chose to delete it immediately. The only thing is, I should have written down the name of the apk, so I could do some research. Pretty odd that with all the devices I have every used and configured for my own use, this is the very first time I have run into any malware. Just coincidence that it’s my new China box? More than likely it was something I installed to test and was left over after I uninstalled that app.
Have a great buffer free day.
False positives are common with Malwarebytes.
You are best to take note of what it has found and research what it is and if it’s a threat in anyway or just another false positive.
I have been using uncertified devices for well over 15 years and not once have I ever had an issue with any device.
I do use virustotal to check APK’s but I don’t run any antivirus software on my Android devices.
But no harm I suppose in doing so.
Ya that’s the mistake I made. Well the second. First was installing Malwarebytes and configuring it before my first cup of coffee. Second was not writing down the name of the found apk. Lol. I actually did not ever see any negative or suspected bad activity on my SK1, and you kinda get to know when something odd is going on with your OS after years of using it. It was, and still is, running perfectly. Wish Malwarebytes had a scan results log I could look at.
Good morning Mr. @Avid08 Have a great buffer free day. Second cup 
of coffee time. My advice! RUN.
This 100%. I want to see a story of an end user that actually had a problem with said Malware. I’ve used Cheap China Boxes (T95Z Plus) for years. Never cleaned them never a problem. Where are all the end users that have said Malware and what problems are they having?
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You missed a few zeros of there me thinks lol…
Exactly I’ve never seen anyone mention anything about having issues with cheaper devices other than they don’t work that great due to the hardware limitations and they are not fed OTA updates like you would get with a more premium device.
I am not saying that there are not devices that may be infected with Malware, but I don’t think it’s a widespread issue.
But we know how the real world works. Keep the poor fearful and the wealthy greedy…