A new malware-as-a-service platform, SuperCard X, targets Android devices using NFC relay attacks to facilitate fraudulent point-of-sale and ATM transactions. The malware, linked to Chinese-speaking threat actors, shares code similarities with previous attacks such as NFCGate and NGate. SuperCard X uses a sophisticated fraud scheme combining social engineering and technological exploitation, enabling attackers to steal payment credentials and perform unauthorized transactions. The platform targets victims globally, bypassing the usual banking fraud paradigms by focusing on the physical communication layer between payment cards and terminals.
SuperCard X operates through a two-part system: the “Reader” application installed on the victim’s phone and the “Tapper” app controlled by attackers. The malware is distributed through carefully crafted social engineering campaigns that trick victims into installing the malicious app. Once installed, the Reader app requests minimal permissions, mainly access to NFC functionality, and guides victims to tap their payment card against the infected phone. This action transmits the card data to the attacker’s device, enabling fraudulent transactions.
The malware uses a technical approach involving Answer to Reset (ATR) messages, which mimic legitimate communication between smart cards and NFC terminals. This allows SuperCard X to bypass proximity constraints, making the attacker’s device appear as a legitimate payment card. The system communicates with a Command and Control (C2) server via mutual TLS (mTLS) authentication, preventing unauthorized interception. This ensures that the malware remains undetected by antivirus solutions and difficult to attribute to specific threat actors.
SuperCard X operates with a low detection profile due to its minimalistic permission model and stealthy features. The malware’s tactics and technical sophistication make it a significant threat to financial institutions and cardholders worldwide. It bypasses traditional fraud detection methods, allowing attackers to perform near-instant fraudulent transactions that are difficult to reverse. While the malware has been seen in Italy, it is expected to spread globally, affecting victims regardless of their bank or location.
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