Millions of people think of malware and viruses as only a threat to desktop computers and laptops. Unfortunately, the popularity of mobile devices is increasingly attracting cyber criminals, who are now designing a number of threats to work on mobile platforms.
This trend continues to evolve towards monetisation, with malware developers trying to corrupt files and steal information capable of making money from mobile users.
However, there’s varying vulnerability to malware and viruses, when it comes to the type of mobile devices used. Sure, we all have choices and preferences, and that means; some people may prefer Android, while others prefer Windows Phone or Apple iPhone.
Have you ever wondered which one is highly vulnerable to malicious threats?
Don’t lay your fears to rest if you’re an android user!
Reliable statistics clearly indicates that Android still dominates the smartphone industry with more than 86 percent market share. But it’s quite unfortunate that the android platform is the most vulnerable to malware and virus than any other operating system. Though Google controls the apps that are downloaded on its official Google Play Store, the open nature of the Android system with a sheer number of free applications accessible from rogue unofficial sites still poses a worrying threat. Definitely, this operating system is an easy target for hackers.
You may think that you are safe downloading from Google Play Store, however, there’s still a possibility that the viruses and malware slip through the cracks of all app stores. This can compromise your phone and give away important details, such as login passwords, bank information, credit card number(s) etc.
So I shouldn’t be paranoid about iPhone and Windows Phone?
Don’t feel so secure because no operating system is absolutely safe. However, unlike androids and other mobile devices, it is virtually impossible for certain malware and viruses to intrude into iPhone.
What isolates the platform is the sandbox concept that forms a strong defence against viruses that can replicate. Also, Apple follows a very strict process of apps, and checks for rogue codes as well as unintended vulnerabilities. Unfortunately, the iOS is also not free from threats because it may be hit with social-engineering attacks, which are well-known to trick users into installing and authorising malicious software.
Window phones are yet to gain a significant market share; however, Microsoft does not leave the safety of its users at stake. It has put in place a relatively tight approach that controls the apps, which are included in its app store. With such tight controls and insignificant market share, malware developers may not find it worth the effort.
Useful tips to protect your phone
Hannah Bouckley from bt.com says, “It’s important to keep your Android software up to date. As well as new features, each update includes bug fixes to help protect your phone… If you let other people use your Android smartphone then it is essential to enable a password for installation of new apps. This is especially important for parents who don’t want their children installing sometimes expensive apps without their knowledge”.
“Naturally practice a noble cyber hygiene,” says John Pititto, malware and virus analyst from thepcdoctor.com.au. According to him, mobile users should install reliable security software from reputable companies, restrain from downloading apps from unofficial sites, and turn off unnecessary connections, such as GPS, Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. He also encourages people to always use different passwords for online accounts, rather than using the similar passwords for all of the accounts. And finally, they should avoid clicking on links, open attachments, or pop-ups to respond to emails from unknown senders.
