Android's Open Approach Makes It a Security Nightmare

Android has become the most-targeted platform for malware due to its open approach, making it more vulnerable to malicious software than Apple's iOS devices. Mobile devices, despite having robust security systems, are often compromised by human negligence, such as ignoring passwords, opening suspicious emails, and installing apps from untrusted sources. Apple's iOS has a strict app review process, while Android's open platform allows any app to be installed from the Google Play Store, making it a haven for malicious software.

Key Takeaways:

Android provides significantly less protection against malicious software than iOS devices, according to a Symantec report.
Intel's McAfee unit stated that Android has become the most-targeted platform for malware.
Mobile devices are more secure than personal computers due to their design, but human negligence can compromise security.
Apple's iOS has a strict app review process, while Android's open platform allows any app to be installed from the Google Play Store.
The Android Market has no pre-approval process for apps, making it a high-risk area for malware.
Security apps, such as Norton Mobile Security Lite and Lookout Mobile Security, can provide a basic layer of protection and additional features with paid subscriptions.

Statistics:

A Symantec report found that Android provides significantly less protection against malicious software than iOS devices (no specific percentage mentioned).
Intel's McAfee unit stated that Android has become the most-targeted platform for malware (no specific date or percentage mentioned).
According to a 2011 Toronto Star article, there are many free security apps available on the Android Market, including Norton Mobile Security Lite and Lookout Mobile Security.

Sources:

Symantec Corp. report (no specific date mentioned)
Intel Corp.'s McAfee unit (no specific date mentioned)