Growing attacks through cell phone apps
By Speedway
on
Thursday, August 11, 2011
with
As more consumers use their smartphones for banking and shopping, threats to your phone become more prevalent.
That is according to the Mobile Threat Report released Wednesday by mobile security company, Lookout.
In January, there were 80 Android apps infected with malicious software, according to their data. By June, there were more than 400. The report claimed as many as 1 million Android owners were affected.
The Wall Street Journal’s Smart Money gives a list of problems the group warns about. Some are problems that commonly threaten your home computer like malware, spyware and privacy threats.
Check out some of the top threats:
Phishing scams: These are attacks designed to trick you into providing log-in information or other personal information. Attackers send links in emails and text messages that redirect users to web pages designed to mimic legitimate businesses, often banks. Avoid clicking on links in emails, and look for telltale signs like misspellings.
Drive-by downloads: Downloads that begin automatically when a user visits a web page. You’re usually lured there by spam or advertising, so be careful where you click.
Wi-Fi sniffing: Attackers intercept data from apps and web pages that is sent unencrypted. Be cautious about what you do on your phone, and check that apps or sites for mobile banking are both encrypted and secure.
Check out all 10 threats to your cell phone’s security at Smart Money.
Category: Featured
