Google disrupted a botnet that infected over 1.3 million Android devices. These were primarily TV set-top boxes.
Google's Threat Intelligence Group stated Videostrong Technology Co. intentionally installed a firmware backdoor. This backdoor, named "x.cpe," was sold to criminals for financial gain.
The botnet facilitated ad fraud. It also created residential proxy networks to route internet traffic through victims' home connections.
Google used legal action to take down the botnet's command-and-control servers. Google also banned Videostrong from producing certified Android devices. Furthermore, Videostrong cannot supply software to other certified vendors.