Researchers warn that hidden app on Google Pixel phones could expose users

A secret and unsafe app found on Google Pixel phones, monitor and control these devices remotelyIt opens up loopholes for cybercriminals to operate in. That’s what cybersecurity firm iVerify discovered. Washington Post last Thursday (15).

The app, called “Showcase.apk,” is available to employees at stores selling Pixel smartphones and other Android models. full access to these devices to demonstrate their functionality. It’s not enabled, but researchers at iVerify managed to enable it and believe hackers can do it too.

When active, this software downloads instructions from a page hosted on Amazon Web Services over an insecure connection, making it easy to intercept and modify malicious instructions. This is separated Millions of Pixel phones are vulnerable to malicious code injection attacksaccording to the report.

Those responsible for the discovery also claim that: Showcase has been pre-installed in the firmware of most Pixel models sold by Google since 2017. Also, there is no way to remove it with traditional system app removal methods.

Google is talking

According to the security firm, Google has been warned about the possibility of exposing Pixel device users using the secret app for at least three monthsInitially, the Mountain View giant did not say whether it would remove the program or take any action to prevent its malicious use.

But on Wednesday (14), big tech reported: Will remove Showcase in next Pixel software updateThe company also noted that the app was only made for demo devices in the Verizon carrier’s store, required physical access and a password to be discovered, and is no longer being used.

The search giant also said: No unauthorized access to the device from the VitrinDespite this assurance from Google, data analytics company Palantir Technologies decided to stop providing Android mobile phones to its employees as a security precaution after learning of the existence of the hidden feature.