Kaspersky: At Least 34% of Android Malware Is Trying To Steal Your Data

We all know that the number of smartphone users around the world is increasing; do you know what else is increasing at an alarming rate? Malwares targeting smartphones, especially on the Android platform.   

According to Kaspersky Lab, Android is now the most popular for mobile malicious programs; in September 2011 alone, the number of newly discovered malware for this platform has increased by a whopping 30%. Running parallel to this statistic in terms of malware is malicious mobile apps targeting users’ personal data; in October 2011, the share of Android malicious apps trying to steal personal data went up to 34%.

 

An example of a malicious Android app is Trojan-Spy.AndroidOS.Antammi.b. It is a program that appears to be a simple app to download ringtones but instead of doing what it promises, it will run a malicious payload activity in the background. Antammi.b will then start stealing everything in the compromised phone including contacts, texts, GPS coordinates and even photos. You know what’s even more worrying? The app was distributed through the official store but has been taken down after being notified by Kaspersky Lab.

 

Such trend is not surprising, Android platform is now leadingin the market share, is flexible and open and at the same time, lack control over its software distribution. For more information on such malicious programs, visit Securelist.