Mobile malware disguised as Microsoft docs spread via WhatsApp

Mobile malware was spotted targeting WhatsApp users in India through messages claiming to be from government agencies.

Two malicious files named "NDA-ranked-8^th-toughest-College-in-the-world-to-get-into.xls" and "NIA-selection-order-.xls" are purportedly from the National Defense Academy (NDA) and National Investigation Agency (NIA), according to the Economic Times of India.

Central security agencies in the country said it appears the malware is targeting defense, paramilitary and police forces.

"As these two organizations are very popular and known within the country and abroad and there is a curiosity to know more about them, it is possible that it may affect the mobile phones of people interested in these subjects,” official told the publication

Once clicked, the malware is capable of accessing personal information including login credentials, banking passwords, and PIN codes.

Most of the files appeared to use Microsoft Excel formats however, researchers also spotted some using Microsoft Word and PDF formats as well.