New Android SuperCard X Malware Uses NFC-Relay Technique for POS & ATM Transactions

A new malware strain known as SuperCard X has emerged, utilizing an innovative Near-Field Communication (NFC)-relay attack to execute unauthorized transactions at Point-of-Sale (POS) systems and Automated Teller Machines (ATMs).

Detailed in a recent report by the Cleafy Threat Intelligence team, this Android-based malware has been identified as part of a sophisticated fraud campaign targeting Italy.

Rising Threats in Mobile Malware

The SuperCard X malware capitalizes on NFC technology, allowing threat actors to intercept and relay NFC communications from compromised devices.

This process involves deceiving victims through social engineering tactics into downloading a malicious application, which then captures payment card data when the card is in proximity to the infected device.

This data is relayed in real-time via a Command and Control (C2) infrastructure to an attacker-controlled device, enabling immediate fraudulent cash-outs.

The campaign showcases a blend of social engineering via SMS and phone calls, malware distribution, and NFC data interception.

A Low Detection Rate and Advanced Techniques

One of the alarming features of SuperCard X is its significantly low detection rate by antivirus solutions.

This can be attributed to the malware’s narrow focus on NFC data capture, which reduces the need for extensive permissions, thereby making it less conspicuous to traditional security measures.

The malware’s architecture includes two applications: “Reader” for capturing NFC card data and “Tapper” for receiving this data and performing the fraud.

Communication between these apps uses HTTP over a C2 infrastructure, which employs mutual TLS (mTLS) to secure and authenticate connections, preventing unauthorized access.

According to Cleafy, this type of attack represents a significant escalation in fraud capabilities, extending beyond the usual targets of banking institutions to directly impact payment providers and card issuers.

The fraud mechanism allows for instant access to funds, evading traditional fraud detection timelines.

The malware’s codebase shows similarities with NGate, another Android malware discovered in 2024, indicating a potential evolution from pre-existing technologies.

Given the widespread potential impact due to the Malware-as-a-Service (MaaS) model through which SuperCard X is distributed, there is a pressing need for financial institutions to enhance their vigilance.

This malware’s ability to operate across different regions and its use of custom builds tailored for specific campaigns, such as those observed in Italy, underscores the adaptability and growing sophistication of these cyber threats.

The SuperCard X malware represents a new front in the ongoing battle against cyber fraud, leveraging NFC technology in a manner that could potentially disrupt traditional financial systems.

The immediate usability of the fraudulently obtained funds by attackers adds a layer of urgency to detect, analyze, and combat such threats.

Financial institutions and security experts are urged to adapt their detection strategies and protection mechanisms to mitigate the risks posed by this evolving malware landscape.

Indicators of Compromise (IOCs)

C2 Servers:

• api.kingcardnfc[.]com
• api.kingnfc[.]com
• api.payforce-x[.]com