Digital security firm McAfee says the number of malicious software attacks rose by 46% last year and that hackers have started zoning in on mobile phones – specifically the popular Android and iOS platforms.
Security software companies like McAfee have long been warning about the exploitable nature of Android’s open platform and indeed a number of new threats which poke holes in the operating system’s security have been discovered within the past year.
For instance, a malicious app hailing from Russia was discovered which – once downloaded – took control of the device and began sending premium rate text messages without the user’s knowledge. This type of scam nets decent profits for cyber criminals who have only to set up the international number, an easy process which can be done online in minutes.
Spying and data sniffing is also thought to be a serious security risk on modern smartphones, where people are storing increasing amounts of information, including banking and credit card details. Anti-virus firms are warning that hackers possess the tools to be able to not only record calls and text messages, but also to hack in and view potentially sensitive data. This can then be used for petty crime, or sold to various intelligence agencies, which pay big bucks for such ill-gotten gains.
Due to its prevalence in the developing world, Nokia’s Symbian operating system is also believed a prime target for hackers, but Canadian firm RIM has managed to emerge from the report with a stellar reputation for security – something its corporate users will be most happy to hear.
