A fake application — disguised as a non-existing version 1.3.7 of the legit Walk and Text title — popped up on file sharing websites and several other usual places for pirated software. Apparently the fake application is an Android.Walkinwat threat; downloading and using it will cost the bold ones more than what they’d have paid for a legit copy.

Once downloaded to the smartphone and launched, the application shows a “Cracking…” message but instead of cracking the legit application, which pirates might expect, it is cracking their smartphone. It collects sensitive information like name, phone number and IMEI sending it out to an external server.

Meanwhile, all the contacts in the Address Book will receive the following text message:

At the end of the cracking the handset and dignity process, pirates are presented with the screen telling them that the application is not licensed. In addition, they’re reminded to check the phone bill and offered the chance to buy a legit copy of the application off the Android Market. Call the above bad intentions, disciplinary justice, marketing or whatever you wish and let us know of your thoughts in the comments!

Source: Symantec

Via: AndroidPolice