US Government-funded Android phones come preinstalled with unremovable malware

An Android phone subsidized by the US government for low-income users comes preinstalled with malware that can’t be removed without making the device cease to work, researchers reported on Thursday.

The first is heavily obfuscated malware that can install adware and other unwanted apps without the knowledge or permission of the user. The second unpleasant surprise is something called Wireless Update. While it provides a mechanism for downloading and installing phone updates, it also loads a barrage of unwanted apps without permission.

Source: US Government-funded Android phones come preinstalled with unremovable malware | Ars Technica