Internet security firm Kaspersky Labs have revealed that there are now over 10 million malicious android apps on the market.
The malware, the majority of which is developed in Russia, can send spam and snoop on passwords. However, stealing a user’s financial information is the most common type.
Android attracts over 98% of app malware due partly to its prevalence but mainly due to its open app architecture and open app store policy. Unofficial app stores probably have many more infected apps.
This is in contrast to Apple's iTunes store which checks and controls every app made available, making it a far safer bet, especially when carrying out transactions.
To make matters worse, once an Android app has infected a device, it can spread to a PC once connected via USB.
Kaspersky advise the following to avoid malicious infection:
- Don’t activate the “developer mode” on the device
- Don’t activate the “Install applications from third-party sources” option
- Only install applications from official channels
- When installing new apps, carefully take note of which rights they request
- Use protection software