Web Security News

Smartphone users ignore mobile malware threats

Tuesday, September 1, 2009

As smartphones become a more common way for users to access the web, cybercriminals are directing their malware attacks against the handheld PCs. But people who go online using their BlackBerrys, iPhones and other smartphones tend to ignore such threats, according to a new survey.

Web security firm Trend Micro's survey of smartphone users found that 44 percent of over 1,000 respondents are "lax when it comes to surfing using their mobile phones." Only 23 percent utilize security software already installed on their phones.

Despite the impression many smartphone users have that the devices are immune from malware and other online threats such as phishing and remote hacking, Trend Micro reports that mobile malware has been around for four years and has become more prolific.

Malware that exploits security holes in the Symbian operating system used on many smartphones includes variants called Beselo.A, Vivera.A, Feaks.A and Yxes.B. Other malware targets Windows mobile phones.

Industry analysts predict that smartphones could surpass PCs as early as 2012, when the devices could reach 504 million phones.

As smartphones become more ubiquitous, malware writers will increasingly target users with new attacks.