New Android malware encrypts files, steals data, and harasses victims

A newly documented Android malware family, Mantax Otax, distributed via malicious APKs outside Google Play, blends ransomware and spyware: it encrypts files on Android 9 and older, steals SMS, contacts, messages, device data and media using Accessibility and MediaProjection, and adds harassment/pressure mechanisms; operators use Firebase/WebSocket C2 and social engineering to infect victims.