Fake 'Pokemon GO' App Causes Malware, Alarms Players

While one cannot deny just how immensely popular "Pokemon GO" had become in a span of two months since its release, it is only a matter of time before it attracts the attention of hackers.

Recent reports show that a fake "Pokemon GO" app has been making rounds online, and had caused malware to infect a huge number of players' phones, as reported by Kaspersky Labs.

According to the company, a mobile app named "Guide for Pokemon GO," which is available for download through the Google Play Store, is actually infused with a Trojan. Kaspersky further explained in their blog post that the malware showed a lot of ads, and has the capacity to download a rooting software that will goad access to the phone's core Android OS.

Kaspersky added that the Trojan will be dormant for a while, before analyzing the device and sending information to an unverified server. The hackers will be receiving the information, and if the device qualifies, they will be infecting the device.

Furthermore, Kaspersky's Kate Kochetkova had commented that the malware will be overloading the phone with ads, and will be installing hidden apps.

"For now, criminals have chosen a relatively mild way to earn money: ads. Tomorrow, they may decide to increase their income by locking your device and demanding ransom - or stealing money from your bank account."

The company mentioned that while most infections appear to have hit smartphone users in Russia, India, and Indonesia, the fact that the app is in English suggests others users around the world may also be affected.

The said app, as its name aptly suggests, guides the user into the mechanics of "Pokemon GO," as it offers tips and tricks on how to become a skilled trainer. As of writing, it has accumulated 500,000 downloads, with 6,000 confirmed infected devices.

Fortunately, Kaspersky Labs has been quick on the uptake, prompting them to develop an update capable of fighting off the said Trojan.