Kaspersky Lab releases Security Report
According to recent Kaspersky Lab internal data, the Android platform has established itself as the most popular for mobile malicious programs, overtaking other platforms as well as "generic" Java malware. In September 2011 alone, the number of newly discovered malware for Android-based devices increased by more than 30%. And in October 2011, the share of particularly Android malicious apps trying to steal personal data went up to 34%. This trend is, of course, alarming, especially if we take into account that such malicious mobile programs sometimes show up on Android Market.
An example of a malicious app distributed through the official store is Trojan-Spy.Android OS.Antammi.b. This program, masquerading as a simple app for downloading ringtones, appeared on Android Market only to be removed after notification from Kaspersky Lab. The "cover" program is designed for users in Russia, who use it to send text messages to a paid service to receive back desired tunes. This activity is perfectly legitimate. However, the malicious payload activity is simultaneously going on in the background. Like traditional "desktop" malware, Antammi.b steals almost everything: contacts, texts, GPS coordinates and even photos. The activity log is then sent to the criminal behind the scam via a simple e-mail message, and the data is uploaded to a server.
Altaf Halde, Managing Director, Kaspersky Lab, South Asia, said, "Keeping in mind, the huge access of the Android marketplace by Indian users, it is just a matter of time that Indian users could also become targets. Protection for Android devices with security software is imperative."
For More Details See
www.varinda.com