# Google shuts down botnet hidden in 1.3 million Android boxes

> Google says a Chinese manufacturer intentionally built malware into set-top boxes and sold access to criminals for profit.
- Title: Google shuts down botnet hidden in 1.3 million Android boxes
- Summary: Google says a Chinese manufacturer intentionally built malware into set-top boxes and sold access to criminals for profit. Google dismantled a botnet…
- Keywords: google, videostrong technology co, android tv, botnet, malware, cybersecurity, set-top boxes, technology, culture, shuts, hidden, million
- Source: The Verge — https://theverge.com/tech/1024807/google-botnet-android-tv-shut-down
- Author: Stevie Bonifield
- Published: 2026-11-02T20:37:49+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: google, videostrong technology co, android tv, botnet, malware, cybersecurity, set-top boxes, technology, culture
## Google finds secret backdoor in Android devices
Google says Videostrong Technology Co., a Shenzhen, China-based Android manufacturer, secretly built a backdoor into 1.3 million devices and turned them into a botnet for criminal use.
## Malware used for fraud and data theft
The infected devices were used without owners' knowledge for ad fraud, data exfiltration, and routing unauthorized network traffic. The malware was built into many device models and brands over multiple years.
## Videostrong sold access to criminals
Google says Videostrong monetized the backdoor by selling access to criminal affiliates and loading their malware modules onto infected devices. The company claims this was intentionally developed and operated for financial gain.

> backdoor and botnet were intentionally developed, deployed, and operated for financial gain
## Google cuts ties and disrupts criminal networks
Google dismantled the backdoor, cut ties with Videostrong, and banned the manufacturer from building certified Android devices. It also disrupted command and control domains affecting at least 10 million additional compromised devices.
## Key takeaway

Google dismantled a botnet affecting 1.3 million Android TV devices made by Videostrong Technology Co. and banned the manufacturer after finding it intentionally built a backdoor for financial gain.