The amount of malware aimed toward Android devices continue to increase. Hundreds of thousands of Android devices are already infected with Malware from the official Android app store, known as “Google Play”, according to a study by Trend Micro (who happens to a maker of antivirus software, obviously…)
Also according to “The H Security”, the amount of “evil apps” has increased from 10,000 to 20,000 in just one month. Which is a huge increase compared to the 5,000 apps identified in the first quarter of 2012.
About one third of the apps that Trend Micro has spotted, are disguised as popular apps such as Angry Birds and Instagram. The apps will cheat the user into sending expensive text messages which will charge you as much as $10, depending on your country and what kind of mobile plan you with your provider. Other malware apps will steal personal information or use your device as part of a bonnet.
Trend Micro expects to see malware apps for Android triple in the third quarter of 2012.
Bottom line, watch out, Android users!!
Hi Klaus,
I’m so glad to be an Apple user right now. Thanks for the heads up – will be sure to tell those green little robot fans friends of mine.
This is the dark side of having so many applications in Google Play. As a android user, I don’t like the situation, but I guess everything comes with some risks.
Yeah ! Unlike apple stores, Google doesn’t provides a human review of all these apps ….. In case of apple they only allows quality and reliable apps from trusted sources in their marketplace.
That’s why apple is far more secure than Android
Is there something similar available for iOS as well? Or is that system protected against malware already?
It’s inevitable – just like viruses on Apple OS. As soon as market share is big enough and there is potential money in it – viruses and malware will come.
Apple market is more protected because of harsh approval process, but this process is also its biggest disadvantage.
Oh…thats really a bad thing. Do you have any idea where the money goes ? Its incredible and always iOS is the best deal ever.