Monitoring-Tool:Android/AndSpy.A

Classification

Category :

Riskware

Type :

Monitoring-Tool

Platform :

Android

Summary

AndSpy.A is a monitoring and anti-theft program which capabilities can be remotely triggered by sending a particular SMS message to the targeted device.

Removal

Once the scan is complete, the F-Secure security product will ask if you want to uninstall the file, move it to the quarantine or keep it installed on your device.

A False Positive is when a file is incorrectly detected as harmful, usually because its code or behavior resembles known harmful programs. A False Positive will usually be fixed in a subsequent database update without any action needed on your part. If you wish, you may also:

  • Check for the latest database updates

    First check if your F-Secure security program is using the latest updates, then try scanning the file again.

  • Submit a sample

    After checking, if you still believe the file is incorrectly detected, you can submit a sample of it for re-analysis.

    Note: If the file was moved to quarantine, you need to collect the file from quarantine before you can submit it.

  • Exclude a file from further scanning

    If you are certain that the file is safe and want to continue using it, you can exclude it from further scanning by the F-Secure security product.

    Note: You need administrative rights to change the settings.

Technical Details

AndSpy.A is a monitoring and anti-theft program that originated from China, but is also marketed to several English speaking regions. Its capabilities can be remotely triggered by sending a particular SMS message to the targeted device. If the message contains a valid command, it will silently perform the corresponding task. For example:

  • 0#: Register the Master number that will be used to send replies
  • 1#: Enable SMS forwarding
  • 2#: Disable SMS forwarding
  • 8#: Send device's contacts
  • 10#: Send location details

AndSpy.A is a stealthy program. It performs malicious activities quietly, and leaves no visible clue that can indicate its presence on the device.

While apps with such behavior may be legitimately used by the device's authorized user, they are classified by security programs as riskware because in the hands of unauthorized users, they can also be used to cause damage to the user's data or the device.

If you are confident that you are aware of the risks involved in using the program and consent to its use, you may choose to keep it installed on your device.