- Google has filed an action in New York against 25 Chinese entities.
- The BADBOX 2.0 botnet has compromised over 10 million Android devices.
- Cybercriminals are conducting ad fraud using infected devices.
- The FBI previously warned about the BADBOX 2.0 botnet threat.
- Google identified different groups involved in the BADBOX operations.
- The court issued an injunction to halt BADBOX 2.0 activity immediately.
Google Takes Action to Fight BADBOX 2.0 Botnet
Google has initiated legal proceedings against 25 unidentified parties in China, filed in the federal district court of New York. The tech giant claims these entities are responsible for operating the BADBOX 2.0 botnet and administering a residential proxy infrastructure that has affected over 10 million Android devices. BADBOX 2.0, as Google explains, targets devices running on Android’s open-source software, a version that notably lacks crucial security measures provided by Google.
Widespread Impact of BADBOX 2.0 on Users
According to Google, the BADBOX 2.0 botnet is linked to widespread cybercrime, including large-scale ad fraud. Exploitation of compromised devices includes pre-installed malware that puts users and home networks at significant risk. This troubling news follows a warning issued by the FBI, which underlined the severe threat posed by BADBOX, having already disrupted networks primarily in the U.S., Brazil, and Argentina, among other countries.
Legal Steps Against BADBOX Operations
In a complaint filed on July 11, Google categorized the BADBOX operations into various groups that manage different components of the botnet’s complexities. This includes an Infrastructure Group for command-and-control, a Backdoor Malware Group, and others focusing on ad fraud mechanisms. The court, in response, has imposed a preliminary injunction, forcing the cessation of these operations. Third-party internet service providers are also required to intervene, curtailing traffic related to BADBOX operations.
In summary, Google’s recent lawsuit against entities behind the BADBOX 2.0 botnet illustrates a significant move in combating the cyber threats that compromise millions of devices. This legal action aims to disrupt a sophisticated ad fraud scheme that harms both users and the integrity of online advertising ecosystems. Collaborative efforts like these are vital for securing the internet and protecting consumers from such illicit activities.
