Symantec Finds Huge Android Malware Infection

Symantec has found a massive Android malware infection in which several million smartphone users downloaded from the Android Market a Trojan capable of stealing information and displaying advertising.

The security vendor discovered the malware, called Android Counterclank, in 13 apps with titles such as "Counter Ground Force," "Heart Live Wallpaper" and "Sexy Girls Puzzle." The malware has the ability to receive commands from a remote server and to steal information, Symantec reported Friday.

Signs of an infection include having a search icon on the top of the home screen and seeing a services called "apperhand" running on the device. Symantec estimates the number of downloads between 1 million and 5 million.

"The combined download figures of all the malicious apps indicate that Android.Counterclank has the highest distribution of any malware identified so far this year," Symantec said in a statement.

Once installed, the Trojan can copy bookmarks, push notifications and shortcuts. It can also identify the last executed command, modify the browser's home page and steal device-related information, such as brand, manufacturer, model and operating system. The malware is also capable of downloading files and displaying advertising. Symantec rated the damage level "medium."