Mobile devices, such as PDAs, Smartphones and iPhones, are increasingly popular in the business community due to the easy access to the Internet they provide, their small size and portability, and their desktop-like user interface. This "must-have" technology is on the way to becoming the ideal compact personal computer that can be carried in a pocket. However, as mobility rises in popularity, it brings security risks from the desktop domain to the mobile device domain.
The first known mobile phone malware was created in 2005 when a worm, called Cabir, infected mobile devices using a Symbian operating system. Mobile devices that have Internet access are exposed to the threat of downloading viruses, worms and other malicious software, in a similar manner as desktop machines, because users generally download photos, video clips, ring tones or other programs that could carry these threats. Furthermore, mobile devices with email access are subject to malware that is spread and downloaded through email.
Another medium for the spread of malware is Bluetooth. Bluetooth is a wireless protocol for exchanging data over short distances from one mobile device to another and to any other device on the network, like a computer or printer. If in "discovery" mode, a Bluetooth-enabled mobile device can be detected by mobile devices within a 30-foot distance and can be easily infected by viruses these other devices may be carrying.
Mobile Phone Best Practices
Use trusted Web sites. Download content from trusted Web sites only.
Avoid clicking on strange attachments. While accessing email from a mobile devices, do not click on suspicious or unknown attachments or links because they may contain malware. Also, clicking on unknown links may lead to phishing attacks.
Use Bluetooth with caution. When you are not using Bluetooth, turn it off. If you are using Bluetooth then make sure that it is in "non-discoverable" or "hidden" mode by changing the settings of your mobile device. Read the manual for your specific mobile handset for doing this task.
Install anti-virus software on your devices. A number of companies such as Symantec offer anti-virus software for mobile devices. Refer to the links below.
Be careful when you receive something from a foreign sender. When accepting applications sent via Bluetooth or multimedia messaging service (MMS), be careful of the possibility of malicious programs. First, make sure the attachment originated from a trusted source, but even if the attachment came from a friend, you had better remove it without opening, if it contains content that is not familiar.
Some Anti-Virus Software for Mobile Devices
References
- First Mobile Phone Virus Created
(BBC) - Tips and Tricks (Nova Rider)
- Wikipedia
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