Tech Optimizer
February 11, 2026
Cybersecurity researchers have identified a malware campaign that exploited Hugging Face's AI infrastructure to distribute Android banking trojans. The attackers used a deceptive app called TrustBastion, which tricked users into installing what appeared to be legitimate security software. Upon installation, the app redirected users to an encrypted endpoint that linked to Hugging Face repositories, allowing the malware to evade traditional security measures. The campaign generated new malware variants every 15 minutes, resulting in over 6,000 commits in about 29 days. It infected thousands of victims globally, particularly in regions with high smartphone banking usage but lower mobile security awareness. The operation is believed to be linked to an established cybercriminal group. Security experts warn that this incident highlights vulnerabilities in trusted platforms and calls for improved security measures, including behavioral analysis systems and verification of application authenticity. The incident has also sparked discussions about the need for enhanced security protocols for AI platforms.
