10 Most Common Android Viruses in 2025 (and How to Protect Against Them)

In 2025, mobile malware continues to evolve, targeting Android devices with sophisticated tricks—from banking trojans and spyware to AI-powered attacks. Understanding the most prevalent threats and how to defend against them is essential for staying safe. Here's an in-depth look at the 10 most common Android viruses, why they remain dangerous, and practical steps to protect your phone.

1. Fakemoney Trojans (Trojan.AndroidOS.Fakemoney.v)

These deceptive trojans disguise themselves as financial or utility apps, tricking users into entering personal data or performing fraudulent transactions. In Q1 2025, they remained the most prevalent Android malware, encountered by over 26% of attacked users.

Protection Tips:

• Only install apps from trusted sources like the Play Store.
• Review app reviews and developer credibility.
• Use antivirus software with fraud detection.

2. Mamont Banking Trojans

Variants such as Mamont.db and Mamont.da made a sizeable jump, now accounting for over 15% of malware detection cases. These target banking credentials, overlaying fake login screens for phishing.

Protection Tips:

• Enable two-factor authentication.
• Use official banking apps downloaded from verified developers.
• Never disclose OTPs or credentials in pop-ups.

3. Triada Backdoor Trojans

Triada variants (Triada.z, hf, fe, gn) exploit deeply embedded system permissions, often preinstalled or hidden within legitimate apps, making them extremely persistent—even through factory resets.

Protection Tips:

• Avoid side-loading apps or buying non-branded devices.
• Re-flash firmware if you suspect deeply entrenched malware.
• Regularly audit app permissions, especially for preinstalled apps.

4. KoSpy Spyware

KoSpy masquerades as benign apps—like file managers or updates—to secretly collect SMS, call logs, files, location, audio, and even screen recordings.

Protection Tips:

• Avoid downloading apps from web links or third-party stores.
• Regularly review installed apps and revoke suspicious permissions.
• Use privacy-friendly tools that audit and limit app access.

5. FireScam Malware

FireScam poses as "Telegram Premium," infecting devices to steal SMS, keystrokes, and banking credentials. It installs via phishing sites that mimic legitimate app stores.

Protection Tips:

• Only download apps from official app stores.
• Be cautious of "premium" or cracked versions of apps.
• Scan installs with reputable security tools.

6. SpyAgent Malware

SpyAgent is a threat against crypto users. It poses as harmless apps but captures images, extracts recovery phrases via OCR, and targets cryptocurrency wallets.

Protection Tips:

• Never store wallet recovery phrases as images.
• Use encrypted apps or hardware tools for storing sensitive data.
• Deploy security apps that scan for suspicious file permissions.

7. Predator & Pegasus Spyware

These are ultra-sophisticated tools—Predator, often used in state surveillance, and Pegasus, capable of zero-click device breaches. They infiltrate devices silently, gaining access to camera, microphone, SMS, and more.

Protection Tips:

• Keep your OS updated to patch critical vulnerabilities.
• Avoid unknown links and phishing campaigns.
• Consider privacy-focused tools or devices if you're high-risk.

8. AI-Powered & Adaptive Malware

Artificial intelligence is now being used to create malware that adapts and evades detection. These threats learn to bypass traditional signature-based antivirus defenses.

Protection Tips:

• Use security software powered by machine learning.
• Enable real-time scanning and anomaly detection.
• Keep security tools updated with latest definitions.

9. SparkKitty Spyware

SparkKitty covertly steals image files—including cryptocurrency wallet seed phrases—from gallery libraries and sends them to cybercriminals. It spreads through compromised app downloads on the Play Store and sideloaded apps.

Protection Tips:

• Limit app file access to essential permissions only.
• Enable Play Protect and avoid granting camera/gallery access unnecessarily.
• Use malware detection tools to monitor file exfiltration attempts.

10. LunaSpy Spyware

LunaSpy disguises itself as antivirus or banking protection apps, often distributed through Telegram links. It records audio/video, selfies, passwords, and more, sending collected data to over 150 command servers.

Protection Tips:

• Never download apps via unsolicited messages or Telegram links.
• Research unfamiliar apps before granting permissions.
• Rely on verified security apps and keep access limited.

Why These Malware Types Dominate in 2025

• Webcam & credential theft threats: Tools like KoSpy, SparkKitty, and LunaSpy extract personal data using added permissions.
• Banking Trojans: Fakemoney and Mamont variants pose as financial tools to capture sensitive entries.
• Advanced spyware: Predator and Pegasus exploit zero-click vulnerabilities for high-profile surveillance.
• AI-enhanced threats: Adaptive malwares use machine learning to avoid detection and evolve fast.

Steps to Protect Your Android Device in 2025

• Use Google Play Protect — Turn on "Scan apps with Play Protect" to catch threats early.
• Keep your device updated — Install system and app updates promptly.
• Limit app permissions — Only grant access necessary for app functionality.
• Install trusted antivirus software with real-time scanning, AI-based malware detection, phishing protection, etc.
• Don't sideload apps — Stick to the official Play Store and review app permissions and developer credentials.
• Stay wary of phishing — Avoid clicking suspicious links via SMS or messaging.
• Use strong authentication — Enable PINs, 2FA, and biometric locks.
• Use VPN for public Wi-Fi — Secure your connection when on shared networks.

Final Thoughts

The Android malware landscape in 2025 is increasingly dangerous. From banking trojans and spying tools to AI-powered threats, the risks are growing both in numbers and sophistication. But you can proactively defend yourself. Use trusted security tools, practice good digital hygiene, limit app permissions, and remain cautious.

Your smartphone is a window into your world—protect it like your most valuable asset.