SpyLend is a malicious Android app that has been downloaded over 100,000 times from Google Play, initially posing as a financial tool but ultimately functioning as a predatory loan app, especially targeting users in India. Part of a broader category of malware called “SpyLoan,” these apps trick users into believing they are legitimate financial services, only to harvest sensitive data from their devices. Upon installation, the app requests excessive permissions, such as access to contacts, call logs, photos, SMS messages, and device location, which it uses for malicious purposes.
Once the app gathers this data, it is used to harass and extort users, often blackmailing them with threats related to unpaid loans. The stolen data is also exploited for fraudulent activities, such as financial scams, or sold to cybercriminals for profit. This app, alongside other variants like Finance Simplified, KreditApple, and PokketMe, has been identified by cybersecurity researchers, who warn that the malware continues to run even after being removed from Google Play.
These apps operate under false pretenses, claiming to be registered Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs), which is untrue.
The malware operates by redirecting users to external websites through a WebView, where users download the malicious APK hosted on Amazon EC2 servers. It primarily targets Indian users, displaying loan application recommendations and requiring them to install additional malware. By loading the deceptive interface only for users located in India, the app tailors its attack, focusing on exploiting local consumers. This location-based targeting shows that the malware creators are aiming their efforts at specific regions for maximum impact.
In addition to exploiting personal data for extortion, the app collects highly sensitive information, including live and historical location data, banking SMS transaction messages, and clipboard data. Experts suggest that any device infected by this app should have the malicious apps removed immediately, permissions reset, and a thorough device scan performed. Users are also advised to change their banking passwords and enable Google Play’s Play Protect tool to help detect and block known threats.
