Android Malware Uses AI for Click Fraud
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A new family of Android click-fraud trojans leverages TensorFlow machine learning models to detect and interact with advertisement elements. The malware operates in 'phantom' and 'signalling' modes, using hidden WebView browsers and WebRTC for real-time actions. Distributed via Xiaomi’s GetApps and third-party APK sites, the malware affects multiple games and modified apps, with over 165,000 downloads. The malware drains battery life and increases data usage, posing a financial impact on users.
Timeline
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22.01.2026 00:07 1 articles · 23h ago
New Android Malware Uses AI for Click Fraud
A new family of Android click-fraud trojans leverages TensorFlow machine learning models to detect and interact with advertisement elements. The malware operates in 'phantom' and 'signalling' modes, using hidden WebView browsers and WebRTC for real-time actions. Distributed via Xiaomi’s GetApps and third-party APK sites, the malware affects multiple games and modified apps, with over 165,000 downloads. The malware drains battery life and increases data usage, posing a financial impact on users.
Show sources
- New Android malware uses AI to click on hidden browser ads — www.bleepingcomputer.com — 22.01.2026 00:07
Information Snippets
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The malware uses TensorFlow.js for machine learning-based click fraud.
First reported: 22.01.2026 00:071 source, 1 articleShow sources
- New Android malware uses AI to click on hidden browser ads — www.bleepingcomputer.com — 22.01.2026 00:07
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The 'phantom' mode uses a hidden WebView browser to load target pages for click fraud.
First reported: 22.01.2026 00:071 source, 1 articleShow sources
- New Android malware uses AI to click on hidden browser ads — www.bleepingcomputer.com — 22.01.2026 00:07
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The 'signalling' mode streams a live video feed of the virtual browser screen to attackers.
First reported: 22.01.2026 00:071 source, 1 articleShow sources
- New Android malware uses AI to click on hidden browser ads — www.bleepingcomputer.com — 22.01.2026 00:07
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The malware is distributed through Xiaomi’s GetApps and third-party APK sites.
First reported: 22.01.2026 00:071 source, 1 articleShow sources
- New Android malware uses AI to click on hidden browser ads — www.bleepingcomputer.com — 22.01.2026 00:07
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Infected games include Theft Auto Mafia, Cute Pet House, and others with over 165,000 downloads.
First reported: 22.01.2026 00:071 source, 1 articleShow sources
- New Android malware uses AI to click on hidden browser ads — www.bleepingcomputer.com — 22.01.2026 00:07
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The malware drains battery life and increases data usage, impacting users financially.
First reported: 22.01.2026 00:071 source, 1 articleShow sources
- New Android malware uses AI to click on hidden browser ads — www.bleepingcomputer.com — 22.01.2026 00:07