Mobile Security Needs More than Just Software

PC users – victimized by malware, spyware and never-ending pop-up windows in the past – know better today than to click on links from strangers or download and install random programs on their computers. But smartphone users haven’t learned those tough lessons yet.

A company called Lookout Mobile Security, which is announcing its 1 millionth customer today, said that mobile security is entering a new phase, just as PC security did so many years ago. Old timers will recall that some hackers initially launched massive attacks for the fame or notoriety. But then came the opportunity to make money off of this hacking business – and so they did.

That’s where we are with mobile security today, according to Lookout’s CEO and founder, John Hering. The company has seen a rise in the number of apps that are loaded with malware. Six months ago, four pieces of malware would be found per 100 phones per year. Today, that’s jumped to 9 pieces of malware. And it’s not just on open source platforms like Google’s Android. There have been instances of problems with apps that get past the app judges on Apple’s iOS platform, as well.

Malware and spyware were always risks in the PC world, as well, but because third-party developers are the ones who are showcasing their mobile apps in mobile app stores, you never know if the developer is a tech genius at MIT or a bad person with bad intentions somewhere overseas. The latest attack: apps loaded with malware that sit dormant and then, days later, starts to auto dial overseas numbers to premium services.

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