KingoRoot is software intended to provide root access on smartphones, tablet computers, etc. running all versions of the Android operating system from 4.1.2, available since 2013. There is another very similar Android application with the same purpose, King Root launched at about the same time; the two very similarly-named applications are often confused. Many major virus engines detect both Kingo Root and Kingroot as malicious, with many users also reporting unwanted behaviour. KingoRoot was used in an exploit by ZNIU along with the DirtyCow exploit in September 2017 to gain root access. KingoRoot was banned from the XDA Developers forum along with vRoot in November 2013. Kingo and King Root are not available for download from the Google Play Store due to Google not supporting root on Android and recognizing them as malware. If a user wants to use one, they have to obtain and install an.apk file; a Google Play alert will pop up warning the user that Kingo Root is dangerous. When attempting to root via the Android.apk, there will be a checkbox that is automatically marked, which reads 'Install recommended app'. Even if the user unchecks the box, Kingo Root will sometimes install another app anyway. If the user tries to root via the PC version, it will give a few offers for other applications that may be adware or PUPs.
Reviews
gave Kingo Android Root 3.5 out of 5 stars. Aatif, in September 27, 2013, said that Kingo Android Root was a “well-designed, aesthetically pleasing application” in his review published on Redmond Pie. Digital Trends commented that Kingo Android Root was "one of the easiest ways to root your Android device". Rick Broida, a CNET editor wrote “Free Windows utility Kingo Android Root makes it a snap to take total control of just about any Android smartphone” in his review. A long thread on the respected xda-developers Web site concluded, with detailed information and links, that Kingroot should be considered adware and malware, although it is often successful in gaining root access.
