- by x32x01 ||
The FluBot malware is a dangerous Android virus designed to steal personal data, including bank credentials, passwords, and contact information. Once a device is infected, it doesn’t just harm the victim - it spreads itself by sending malicious links to all contacts in the phone!
This aggressive malware mainly spreads through SMS phishing attacks, also known as smishing. Let’s explore how FluBot works, how to identify it, and most importantly, how to protect your data from being stolen.
How FluBot Malware Infects Android Devices
The attack begins with a fake text message claiming to come from a delivery company like DHL, Amazon, or FedEx. The message usually says something like:
When users click that link, they’re redirected to a malicious website that asks them to install an app to “track the package.” In reality, that app is not a delivery tracker - it’s the FluBot malware.
Once installed, the malware gains full access to your phone and starts performing harmful actions such as:
Warning from Security Authorities
The UK’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has officially warned users about the FluBot malware. Network providers like Vodafone and Three have also sent alerts to their customers about the threat.
NCSC advises users not to click any suspicious links in SMS messages and never to install apps outside official app stores like Google Play or Apple App Store.
Here’s what you can do if you receive a suspicious message:
How FluBot Spreads So Fast
FluBot spreads through social engineering - it tricks you into trusting the sender. Once you install the fake app, the malware secretly sends infected messages to everyone in your contact list.
Because the messages come from someone you know, your friends are more likely to trust the message and click the link - and that’s how the infection chain continues.
It’s like a digital virus jumping from one phone to another through text messages!
Why Only Android Devices Are Affected
Currently, FluBot only infects Android devices. iPhone users are safe from direct infection, but they can still receive malicious SMS links that attempt to steal their personal data through phishing websites.
Even if you’re an iPhone user, never click on suspicious delivery or tracking links. Hackers can still collect your data through fake login pages or deceptive surveys.
What to Do If Your Phone Is Infected
If you already installed the fake app or clicked the link, act immediately:
Tip: If you’re unsure whether you’re infected, check for any unknown apps with extra permissions like SMS access or device control.
Best Practices to Stay Safe from FluBot and Other Malware
Here’s how you can protect yourself from FluBot and similar Android threats:
Example: How Hackers Trick Users Using Fake Links
Here’s a simple example in JavaScript showing how a fake link could redirect users to a malicious site - demonstrating why you should always be careful:
Hackers often hide these scripts inside fake websites that look identical to legitimate courier pages.
Final Thoughts
FluBot malware is one of the fastest-spreading Android viruses in recent years. It uses human trust and curiosity as its strongest weapon. The best defense is awareness - always double-check any delivery messages, avoid suspicious links, and keep your phone secure.
Stay smart, stay protected, and don’t let malware mess with your digital life!
This aggressive malware mainly spreads through SMS phishing attacks, also known as smishing. Let’s explore how FluBot works, how to identify it, and most importantly, how to protect your data from being stolen.
How FluBot Malware Infects Android Devices 
The attack begins with a fake text message claiming to come from a delivery company like DHL, Amazon, or FedEx. The message usually says something like:When users click that link, they’re redirected to a malicious website that asks them to install an app to “track the package.” In reality, that app is not a delivery tracker - it’s the FluBot malware.
Once installed, the malware gains full access to your phone and starts performing harmful actions such as:
Stealing personal data and device information.
Capturing bank account details and passwords.
Sending infected messages to all your contacts.
Accessing your entire address book.- Spreading automatically to new devices through text messages.
Warning from Security Authorities 
The UK’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has officially warned users about the FluBot malware. Network providers like Vodafone and Three have also sent alerts to their customers about the threat.NCSC advises users not to click any suspicious links in SMS messages and never to install apps outside official app stores like Google Play or Apple App Store.
Here’s what you can do if you receive a suspicious message:
Never click on the link in the text message.
Do not install any app suggested by the message.
Forward the SMS to 7726, a free spam-reporting service.
Delete the message immediately after reporting it.
How FluBot Spreads So Fast 
FluBot spreads through social engineering - it tricks you into trusting the sender. Once you install the fake app, the malware secretly sends infected messages to everyone in your contact list.Because the messages come from someone you know, your friends are more likely to trust the message and click the link - and that’s how the infection chain continues.
It’s like a digital virus jumping from one phone to another through text messages!
Why Only Android Devices Are Affected 
Currently, FluBot only infects Android devices. iPhone users are safe from direct infection, but they can still receive malicious SMS links that attempt to steal their personal data through phishing websites. Even if you’re an iPhone user, never click on suspicious delivery or tracking links. Hackers can still collect your data through fake login pages or deceptive surveys.What to Do If Your Phone Is Infected 
If you already installed the fake app or clicked the link, act immediately:- Disconnect your phone from the internet (Wi-Fi & mobile data).
Perform a factory reset to remove the malware completely.
Do not restore backups made after the malware infection - they might still contain the virus.
Change all your passwords, especially for banking, email, and social media accounts.- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) wherever possible for extra protection.
Tip: If you’re unsure whether you’re infected, check for any unknown apps with extra permissions like SMS access or device control.Best Practices to Stay Safe from FluBot and Other Malware
Here’s how you can protect yourself from FluBot and similar Android threats:
Download apps only from official stores (Google Play, Samsung Galaxy Store).- Avoid side-loading APK files from third-party websites.
- Install a trusted antivirus app and keep it updated.
- Review app permissions regularly - revoke unnecessary ones.
- Update your phone’s OS to the latest security patches.
- Never trust delivery or banking links sent via text message.
Example: How Hackers Trick Users Using Fake Links
Here’s a simple example in JavaScript showing how a fake link could redirect users to a malicious site - demonstrating why you should always be careful: JavaScript:
// Example of a fake redirect used by scammers
window.location.href = "https://fake-delivery-tracking.com";Final Thoughts 
FluBot malware is one of the fastest-spreading Android viruses in recent years. It uses human trust and curiosity as its strongest weapon. The best defense is awareness - always double-check any delivery messages, avoid suspicious links, and keep your phone secure.Stay smart, stay protected, and don’t let malware mess with your digital life!
Last edited: