Hacker alert: Fake IT-Alerts to empty your bank account

Lately, hackers are developing a new tactic to empty bank accounts, exploiting the fear of natural disasters. Smartphones have turned into walking traps, with deceptive notifications that promise safety but hide something hidden danger. Have you ever received a message warning you of possible imminent earthquakes or volcanic eruptions? Does it ask you to download an app to stay safe? Please note:, it could be one fraud. These messages do not come from the legitimate alarm system IT-Alert, but they are hackers' new trick to access your bank account.

Hacker alert, how it works

When you press the button to download the seemingly useful app, you are actually opening the door to a malware known as IT-Alert.apk, which installs on your smartphone a spyware from the SpyNote family. This malware can perform spying operations on your device, even with the screen turned off. It can access your camera and send photos and videos without your consent. But the main goal is to steal your banking information and empty your account.

This dangerous malware was discovered in late 2022 and has become a significant threat to financial institutions. Hackers aim to carry out undisturbed money thefts.

Security experts, such as those at D3Lab, emphasize the importance of not installing applications from unofficial sources.

The IT-Alert system

Il IT-Alert system legit was designed to warn you of real emergencies and natural disasters. However, it will only be active starting from February 2024, and will not require any app downloads. It will work through cell-broadcast technology, sending messages to geographically close groups of cells, without requiring any action on your part.

So, remember: if you receive a message asking you to download apps or visit sites to trigger an IT-Alert, it is a scam.

But where do the phone numbers receiving these deceptive messages come from? In many cases, hackers recover the numbers from the dark web, collecting data from previous cyber attacks, such as those against ASL1 in Abruzzo or the Post Office.

Your main defense against these threats is information. Remember not to trust suspicious messages and Don't download apps from unverified sources. Protecting your bank account is a priority, so be vigilant and informed to avoid hacker traps.