Manic

Smartphone Spyware: How Devices Collect and Exfiltrate Data Even Without Internet Access

Modern smartphones continue gathering sensor data including microphone, camera, gyroscope, and satellite navigation even when Wi-Fi and mobile data are disabled. Information is stored locally and transmitted only when connectivity is restored. The Find My Device feature from Google and Find My from Apple allow location reporting for hours after the device is powered off via a separate Bluetooth chip. In August 2026, ThreatFabric disclosed the Manic trojan that uses Wi-Fi Direct, Bluetooth RFCOMM, and BLE GATT to relay encrypted data through nearby infected devices when direct internet access is unavailable. The malware supports multi-hop routing of up to four intermediate devices. Everyday users face greater risk from over-privileged applications and pre-installed malware on gray-market devices than from sophisticated offline exfiltration techniques. A detailed checklist covers purchase hygiene, permission audits, and recovery steps after suspected compromise.

Manic Android Malware Steals PINs via Transparent Overlay and Relays Data Through Nearby Infected Devices

A newly identified Android malware strain named Manic merges banking trojan, spyware, and remote access capabilities. The threat has been active since at least February 2026 and continues to receive updates that add anti-analysis features, in-memory code loading, and lock-screen credential theft. Manic monitors 169 financial, messaging, and government applications while using a transparent overlay on legitimate numeric keyboards to capture PINs without displaying a full fake banking screen. Stolen data can be forwarded through other compromised nearby devices even when the original phone lacks internet connectivity. Operators also leverage WebRTC sessions for live screen viewing and remote interaction. The malware additionally functions as a keylogger, intercepts SMS and notifications, and collects passwords, one-time codes, and recovery phrases. Security researchers recommend avoiding unknown APKs and scrutinizing requests for Accessibility Services or broad device control permissions.