How might the rise of mobile malware impact modern businesses?

Following Monday’s increasingly popular Hot Topics debates, we decided to take a real in-depth look into the scary rise of mobile malware and its impact on modern business. Not only should phones be loved as an essential tool in communication, but they should be also taken with a pinch of salt. Knowing about privacy issues and increase of malware vectors need to be understood from all business owners.  

As mentioned in the Hot Topic debate, mobile malware is up 2,180% in 2012 as mobility starts to permeate every aspect of consumer and business lives. Malware vectors are consistently increasing, and there appears to be no escape. 

“The rapid rise of mobile malware indicates yet another risk businesses take with BYOD. You no longer have complete control over devices on your network, and must balance security with usability. If BYOD is an absolute requirement, ensure that it is covered by an adequate security policy.”

Adrian Hayter , InfoSec Blogger and Penetration Tester, CNS

Some companies are getting wise. Recognising the damaging role that human fallibility can play, more and more companies are looking to internal and external training to stop their employees from falling for cyber schemes. 

“The weakest link has always been the individual,” said Dave Papas, chief operating officer at Fairfax-based Cyveillance, a subsidiary of McLean-based QinetiQ North America. “Once I can compromise one individual within an organization, I then can potentially compromise everyone.” Motions are beginning to get into place to help companies deal with potential issues. 

‘Whilst the rise in mobile malware is a concern, I believe there are other mobile threats that Infosec personnel should be prioritising such as misplaced mobile devices and a loss of control over sensitive data. However, I do think this situation will change over time.’ 

Quentyn Taylor , Blogger and Security Commentator

Despite the optimism, McAfee’s latest reports show a 1.5 million increase in malware since the last financial quarter. Meaning that 2012 – although a very good year for sport – is in fact, far and away the busiest year ever for malware. Shocking. 

Consider this: your PC/laptop is locked down with a strong, complex password when not in use, and your mobile devices are secured with a passcode. You have a cross-device security tool in place on your PCs and mobile devices to block unwanted traffic, prevent compromise from malware attacks, and protect your sensitive data. Even when the best security measures are in place, there’s still an Achilles heel. Any guesses? 

You.

Fun things likes games, music, social networking, etc are all far too common on a mobile platform. Despite their element of fun – and it is a lot of fun – they open the door to dangerous data loss, theft, span, Trojans, spyware, data breaches and aggressive advertising. These aren’t so much fun.

As mentioned before, ABI research found that unique malware variants grew by a staggering 2,180%, reaching 17,439 total strains. Unbelievable, isn’t? 

However, avoiding malware is about being aware that it is lurking out there and knowing the right way of how to protect it. Forgive the cliché: but knowing is half the battle. Be careful when visiting third-party apps stores, keep security applications up-to-date, update smartphones Operating Systems software and more importantly, and most crucially, do not click on suspicious links or ads. Ever. Even if it offers you a bunch of free stuff. 

By keeping focused, and sensible, you can have a safe and infection-free 2012. Users will always be the weakest link in security, whether its human error that leaves a door open, or the gullibility of human nature that leads a user to open the door for a friendly stranger. Knowing is king. Make sure you and company get educated. 

What do you think? Should there be a sudden panic on the rise of mobile malware? Is there enough information out there? Let us know by commenting below, or on Twitter @MicrosoftBizUK