Malicious actors have set their sights on users of a popular mobile currency game, Hamster Kombat, by deploying fake Android and Windows software that installs spyware and other harmful malware. This alarming trend is putting the personal information and security of unsuspecting users at risk.
Since its launch in March, Hamster Kombat has quickly amassed over 250 million users, largely enticed by the prospect of earning TON-based cryptocurrency while playing the game. To participate, Android users are required to join the game’s Telegram channel, scan a QR code, and then initiate a Web app on their device. However, the journey to access the game is fraught with potential hazards.
When searching for the official Hamster Kombat Telegram channel, users may encounter fake channels bearing similar names that are actually designed to distribute Android malware. One such channel, “HAMSTER EASY,” is known to disseminate Ratel Android spyware disguised as an APK file. This malicious software enables threat actors to clandestinely subscribe victims to unauthorized services and conceal notifications to evade detection.
Furthermore, bogus websites like “hamsterkombat-ua.pro” and “hamsterkombat-win.pro” have been identified as luring visitors with false promises of the game, only to redirect them to advertisements that generate revenue for the perpetrators. This deceitful tactic not only deceives users but also exposes them to potential malware infections and privacy breaches.
On the Windows platform, researchers have uncovered GitHub repositories purporting to offer Hamster Kombat farm bots and autoclickers, but instead delivering cryptors containing Lumma Stealer, a notorious info-stealing malware. This deceptive practice underscores the lengths to which malicious actors will go to exploit the game’s popularity and compromise users’ devices.
As Hamster Kombat continues to capture the attention of millions of users worldwide, the threat landscape surrounding the game is expected to intensify. To safeguard against falling victim to malicious schemes and counterfeit applications, users are advised to exercise caution when downloading software and remain vigilant against potential threats.
In conclusion, the proliferation of fake Android and Windows software targeting Hamster Kombat users with spyware and malware represents a grave concern for the security and privacy of individuals engaging with the game. It is imperative for users to stay informed, adopt cybersecurity best practices, and remain vigilant in order to mitigate the risks posed by malicious actors in the increasingly hostile digital environment.