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Android Malware Epidemic: Google's Open-Source Vulnerability

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Google's Android mobile phone platform has become an attractive target for malware creators, with a staggering 70 types of malware identified in March, up from two categories in September, according to Kaspersky Lab. The rapid increase in malware has left Android vulnerable, with applications loaded with malicious software infiltrating the Google operating system at a faster rate than personal computers at the same stage in development. Kaspersky will offer security on Android in the third quarter of this year, in an attempt to combat the growing threat.

Key Takeaways:

  • The growth rate of malware in Android is "huge," with 70 different types identified in March, compared to only two categories in September.
  • Kaspersky Lab estimates that the "malware was not like before," with previous mobile attacks limited to sending text messages to premium numbers, whereas current malware can gain substantial control over the infected device.
  • Google does not have antivirus protection on the file level in its operating system, making it an attractive target for malware creators.
  • Kaspersky aims to be the world's top provider of end-user Internet security software, having sold 20% of its shares to General Atlantic LLC this year.
  • Android will run on 38.5% of smartphones sold this year, according to market research firm Gartner.
  • The open-source model of Android, which allows developers access to some of its code, makes it easier for people to exploit vulnerabilities.
  • Google's lack of antivirus protection on the file level is a significant concern, with Kaspersky's David Emm warning that approved applications can still contain hidden malware.

Statistics:

  • 70 types of malware identified in March, up from two categories in September.
  • 20% of Kaspersky's shares sold to private equity group General Atlantic LLC this year.
  • 38.5% of smartphones sold this year will be running Android, according to Gartner.
  • Android Market removed more than 50 applications containing malicious code known as DroidDream last month.

Sources:

  • Bloomberg News
  • Kaspersky Lab (statement by Nikolay Grebennikov, Chief Technology Officer)
  • Google (statement by Ollie Rickman, Company Spokesman)
  • Gartner (market research report)
  • Lookout (mobile security firm, report on DroidDream malware)
  • PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (statement by Jay Abbott, Director of Threat and Vulnerability)
  • King's College, London (statement by Richard Overill, Senior Lecturer in Computer Science)

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