If Mark Twain was alive today, he would probably say "The reports of Android malware have been greatly exaggerated."
There's been a lot of talk in the news lately about a surge of malware targeting Android, but you have to consider the source.
I always take security warnings from firms such as McAfee with a grain of salt; after all, they have everything to gain from creating FUD*. The enormous surge in popularity of the Android operating system has provided a great opportunity for security firms to become profiteers; especially when you have an almost equally large base of detractors in the Apple camp who will gladly spread any message disparaging the rival OS.
Any community that experiences exponential growth is going to face security threats as it's going to naturally attract a criminal element. Facebook, Twitter and even Apple have had exploits and security scares (MacDefender anyone?).
Does this mean you should trade in your new Droid RAZR for an iPhone? No, but if the IT department sighs every time you call help desk with an issue, you may want to stick with the stock ROM and not root your device.
A little common sense goes a long way when it comes to mobile security. All the same fundamentals you apply to your PC also apply to your mobile devices.
- Don't open links or attachments from people you don't know.
- Don't install pirated or cracked software or apps.
- Don't use the same password for everything.
If you're still not convinced then $59 may be a small price to pay for peace of mind, but don't let the scaremongers keep you from experiencing the freedom that comes with owning an Android device.
*Fear, uncertainty and doubt, frequently abbreviated as FUD, is a tactic used in sales, marketing, public relations, politics and propaganda. FUD is generally a strategic attempt to influence public perception by disseminating negative and dubious/false information designed to undermine the credibility of their beliefs.
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