After installing a malicious application from an unclear source, cases are mounting in which people are unknowingly exploited to send illegal spam, leading to suspensions of their mobile phone service, prompting warnings to take caution.
According to the Korea Media and Communications Commission on the 31st, there have been continued cases in which the mobile phones of users who installed illegal video playback apps such as "TV Wiki" sent mass spam texts誘 to access gambling sites. These apps were found to have obtained permission to access text messages during installation and then automatically sent illegal spam using the user's mobile phone number.
In fact, the Illegal Spam Response Center's 118 hotline received numerous reports that spam beginning with phrases such as "cc are you cashing in~?" and "cc♥welcome 100%~" was sent from personal numbers, resulting in service suspension. Numbers exploited for mass illegal spam like this may be suspended under mobile carrier terms and conditions, and it is difficult to receive separate compensation, requiring extra caution.
The Korea Media and Communications Commission (KMCC) recommended refraining from installing apps from unclear sources to prevent harm, and if infection is suspected, deleting the app or initializing the mobile phone. If damage has occurred, users can receive expert counseling at the Illegal Spam Response Center operated by the Korea Media and Communications Commission (KMCC) and the Korea Internet & Security Agency (KISA). If materials proving relevant facts are submitted to the carrier, users can also apply to have the service suspension lifted.
The Korea Media and Communications Commission (KMCC) urged the public to actively report illegal spam once confirmed through the easy-report app or via mobile phone.