Jeremiah Yap

Android, Google's mobile operating system, has been targeted by malware and cybercriminals in the past, and it continues to be a popular target due to its widespread use and open-source nature.

One of the most common types of Android malware is known as "adware," which is designed to display unwanted ads to users. Adware can often be disguised as legitimate apps or bundled with other software, making it difficult for users to detect and remove.

In addition to adware, Android has also been targeted by more serious forms of malware, such as "trojan" viruses and "ransomware." These types of malware are designed to infect and take control of the user's device, potentially stealing sensitive data or locking the user out of their own files until a ransom is paid.

Cybercriminals may also use phishing attacks or other tactics to trick users into downloading and installing malicious apps or visiting compromised websites.

According to a report compiled by Blue Coat Systems, a mobile research firm, states that 58 percent of Android malware was caused by rogue software and cybercriminals.

"Forty percent of Android malware was delivered via malnets, demonstrating how cybercriminals can successfully utilize embedded infrastructures to attack mobile users. In the most recent six months, WebPulse also blocked an increasing number of unique malicious Android applications," Blue Coat released in a statement.

About 40 percent of the total 58 percent of reported malware was caused by malnets, which are designed specifically to render malicious payloads.

Malware has affected Android up to a degree which CXOs are having trouble supporting the various versions of Android. Blue Coat also reveals that another key threat to Android was pornography.

"It is important to note that mobile users are going to pornography sites less than one percent of the time. When they do visit pornography sites, though, they have a high risk of finding a threat," Blue Coat added.

To protect against these threats, it is important for Android users to be vigilant when downloading and installing apps, only using trusted sources such as the Google Play Store. Additionally, users should keep their device's software up-to-date and use security software, such as antivirus apps, to help detect and remove any potential threats.

 

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