Latest warning issued by CBS.
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Smartphones are a craze that’s sweeping the world, and we are yet to see any indication this is going to change in the foreseeable future. This can only be a good thing – it gives you the chance to have the computer you dreamt of a few years ago in your pocket and do all the fancy stuff you want to do while on the go. Mind, this is only the beginning and these smart devices are getting better all the time, so more features are on the way – and more features translate into more opportunities, while more opportunities ensure that we are going to store additional and potentially sensitive information on our smartphones. And here comes the issue with smartphone security – a problem that is grossly underestimated by most users, which is really surprising given the fact that a few viruses have already managed to breach the security of various mobile OSs.
http://www.phonearena.com/news/Smartphone-viruses—threats-malwares-and-cures_id17695
According to McAfee, the most vulnerable smartphone features include:
- Text messages
- Contacts
- Video
- Phone transcriptions
- Call history
- Documentation
- Buffer overflows
The outbreak might not be contained to the smartphone either.
Most of the current generation of smartphones have mini usb connectors. The connector not only allow the devices to be charged, but also allows them to be plugged into a desktop computer for data syncing. This could allow a virus to be transferred to your desktop or laptop from your smartphone. (I also plug my smartphone into my car’s usb connector to charge. Could a virus be uploaded into it?)
So, what should smartphone owners do? While many companies have developed anti-virus software for smartphones, I suggest simply using the same safe computing practices one uses with their desktop:
- Be wary of email attachments, even if they come from friends
- Obtain applications from trusted sources
- Keep your sensitive data safe
- Protect your passwords
- Be careful using open wifi networks.
