Hackers now targeting smart phones

The vast majority of malware attacks still take place on PCs. But cybercriminals are increasingly turning their focus on smart phones. And no wonder: Smartphones are getting to be miniature computers. Many people use smartphones to surf the Web, read e-mail messages and transfer funds to our banks. These products, then, are ripe for attack. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to secure your smart phone from hackers.


Scary Numbers


It's not easy finding data on the frequency of smart phone cyber attacks. In a recent column, CNN Money writer David Goldman does a good job of scaring his readers. For example, denotes a recent mobile malware hack on Verizon that allowed cyber criminals to steal debit-card numbers. That attack generated a loss of $20 million. That's one attack. Goldman cites numbers from Lookout Security that found that four in 10 smartphone users will click or swipe on an unsafe Web link within the next year. He also reported that anti-virus giant McAfee reported that mobile malware attacks have jumped by a factor of six. When it comes to protection, mobile phone users are lax. According to security organization SANS, less than a fifth of smart phones are protected by anti-virus software.


The Good News


These numbers shouldn't cause smart phone users to toss their devices in the river. Despite the increasing amount of mobile malware, cyber criminals are still focusing mainly on PCs. For just one reason, it's easier. Developers learned from their past flaws, and have made it more tough for cyber criminals to take over smart phones and other mobile devices. At the same time, these criminals are so successful in targeting PC users, they have little financial incentive to focus on mobile devices. Consumers, though, shouldn't rely on this for much longer, Goldman writes. As smart phones continue to increase in popularity, they will see a greater number, and variety, of malware attacks.


Protect Yourself


You can protect yourself from mobile malware much the same way you protect yourself from PC-based cyber attacks: Use common sense.
First, never provide private info such as your Social Security Number or checking account numbers to companies that request it through e-mail. Your bank would not ask for such personal information within e-mail message. Always be wary when downloading apps. Make sure to review apps before downloading them, and steer clear of shopping in unregulated app stores.