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RedHook Android malware abuses Wireless ADB for shell access

Malware Activity
First reported
Last updated
Happening score
H score 26
1 unique sources, 1 articles

Summary

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The RedHook Android malware now abuses Wireless ADB to obtain shell (UID 2000) privileges, expanding its control over infected devices. The change lets the malware operate without a computer connection and increases the risk of screen streaming, keystroke interception, and credential theft. It first abuses Accessibility permissions to enable Developer Options and Wireless Debugging, then pairs over 127.0.0.1 to reach the ADB service. The latest release also adds 53 server-issued commands and multiple persistence mechanisms to keep running.

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Timeline

  1. 12.07.2026 17:27 2 articles · 1d ago

    Group-IB identifies RedHook Android malware using Wireless ADB for shell access

    Initial Disclosure

    Group-IB analyzed a new RedHook Android malware variant that abuses Wireless ADB to gain shell (UID 2000) privileges without a computer connection. The malware tricks victims into granting Accessibility permissions so it can enable Developer Options, activate Wireless Debugging, pair over 127.0.0.1, and then use a Shizuku-based framework to execute privileged Android APIs, retain RAT functions such as screen streaming, keystroke interception, UI automation, and credential theft, and persist through multiple restart and sleep-avoidance mechanisms. The latest version is also distributed through social engineering that impersonates government agencies or financial institutions and directs victims to fake Google Play sites.

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