Android malware is stealing your data
A report by Kaspersky Lab shows that 34 percent of Android malware steals user data – and that the platform is now the most popular choice for malicious programs.
In September 2011 alone, the number of newly-discovered malware for Android-based devices increased by more than 30 percent.
An example of malicious apps distributed through the official Android store is Trojan-Spy.AndroidOS.Antammi.b.
The program, which masquerades as a simple app for downloading ringtones, appeared on the Android Market only to be removed after notification from Kaspersky Lab.
The program is designed for users in Russia, who use it to send text messages in order to pay for downloadable ringtones.
In addition to this service, the program steals user data – including personal contacts, text messages, GPS co-ordinates and images – which it then uploads to a server.
Kaspersky points to the Android platform’s leading market share, flexibility and openness, and lack of control over its software distribution as leading reasons for the prominence of malware targeting the devices.
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