security - Android Community

Tagged: security

Skype Replies to Android Vulnerabilities

By James DeRuvo
on 16 Apr, 2011

Yesterday, we reported that bloggers had found a vulnerability in the Skype App which allows hackers to harvest data from a user's Android handset with no need to root a phone or gain special permission. The problem was discovered during the testing of a leaked version of Skype for Android's new Video App. But it didn't take long to notice that the flaw was carried over from the already released Skype for Android App that's currently in the Market. Skype has responded to the news in their security blog, admitting that the flaw exists and they're working hard to fix it. But what can a user do to protect themselves in the meantime?

Skype for Android has flaw that leaks personal data

By Shane McGlaun
on 15 Apr, 2011

If you are an Android smartphone user that has Skype installed a flaw in Skype that exposes your personal information has been found. The issue surfaced over at Androidpolice when they took the new Skype Video app apart to see how it worked and found the way it handles personal data leaves much to be desired.

Android courts Enterprise with remote-tracking, encryption & more

By Chris Davies
on 8 Apr, 2011

Google has announced a renewed focus on enterprise use of Android devices, with a range of new features centered around security and collaborative working. Available to all Google Apps for Business and Google Apps for Education customers, the functionality includes remote tracking and locking support via the My Devices dashboard. It's now possible to locating a lost Android 2.2+ handset on a map, ring the device, and reset its PIN or password remotely. There's also a new "Encrypt Data on Device" feature, which will now include requiring encrypted storage on Android 3.0 tablets. Finally, there's a new Google Apps Lookup feature which promises to make locating enterprise business details more straightforward. More information on the changes here.

Webroot Mobile Security for Android protects you from viruses and more

By Shane McGlaun
on 4 Apr, 2011

The number of threats for smartphone users with Android operating systems on their device is always growing. The best way to protect your device and the data you have is to install some sort of security software. Webroot recently unveiled a new security app for Android users.

Motorla buys 3LM, stakes claim in Android Security market

By James DeRuvo
on 14 Feb, 2011

Hackers have one simple rule: the larger the footprint a platform has online, the easier it is for hackers to go after. PCs learned that the hard way while others enjoyed relative anonymity by flying under the radar. And since it wasn't long ago that Android devices began to outsell the other handsets, a big target has been placed on their collective backs in terms of wireless security. So Motorola is being proactive by buying 3LM, a security company that develops online shields for Android devices.

Android Market Web Store Backdoor Discovered by Naked Security

By Chris Burns
on 4 Feb, 2011

If you're familiar with the goings on with Google as of late, you know that Android has just received a significant bump with a fully functional browser-based store. Up until now, Android users had to rely on the tiny Android Marketplace based on their handheld devices - this new store allows apps to be downloaded simultaneously to each and every one of these devices (if the user has several) all at once, direct from the cloud. What's the problem with this? Doesn't this all seem like flowers and candy? How about if someone grabs your password?

Dropcam Android app: Feed your CCTV paranoia on the move [Video]

By Chris Davies
on 3 Feb, 2011

Dropcam has added an Android app for accessing its streaming webcams to the Android Market, having previously only offered basic browser support for non-iOS devices. The app itself is a free download, though you'll need to be a paying Dropcam subscriber in order to actually access your cameras. As well as regular streams, you can set alerts to be notified on movement or audio. [youtube jIbzF3RQf6g] [via AppScout]

Soundminer Trojan steals data by listening

By Shane McGlaun
on 21 Jan, 2011

Researchers have apparently developed a new low-profile Trojan that runs on the Android OS that can steal data in a very sneaky way that will not trip antivirus software or alert the user to its presence. The malware is known as Soundminer.

Android exploit turns smartphone into USB security hole

By Chris Davies
on 20 Jan, 2011

A new exploit potentially turning Android phones into USB hacking tools has been revealed, which might make users more wary of plugging smartphones into their computers to sync or recharge. The exploit, developed by Angelos Stavrou and Zhaohui Wang, infects an Android device so that it mounts as a regular HID (human interface device) keyboard and mouse on a PC, Mac or Linux machine. With that access, the malware author could then retrieve files, download other malware or even take control of the system altogether, depending on the nature of the exploit code. Versions of the exploit have been written for computers and for the Android kernel; an iOS version would also be possible, the researchers claim.

"Say your computer at home is compromised and you compromise your Android phone by connecting them. Then, whenever you connect the smartphone to another laptop or computing device I can take over that computer also, and then compromise other computers off that Android. It's a viral type of compromise using the USB cable" Angelos Stavrou

Sophos says Android will be targeted by Facebook-based attacks

By Shane McGlaun
on 12 Jan, 2011

Sophos has announced that it thinks Android will be a big target this year for Facebook-based malware attacks. Sophos' senior technology consultant Graham Cluley said, "The iPhone operates in a more controlled environment and the BlackBerry security model is fairly strong. Because Android operates in a more open environment, it's more open to infections."