Malware attacks in Google's Android market increased steadily since July, leaving users skeptical about whether the company's open platform is more of a benefit or a concern.
Juniper Networks reported the number of apps containing malware increased by 472 percent in the Android market over the last four months, accounting for more than half of the apps available for download.
Android's "open market" structure allows app developers to upload their creations to the marketplace for just $25, and developers can remain anonymous, one reason why hackers may choose Android market as a vehicle for their spyware.
Google often touts its open platform as a benefit because it allows Android users a greater variety of apps to choose from than rival companies like Apple, which has a stricter screening process for app developers.
For example, Apple requires "code signatures" from all of its developers, which prove the apps originate from a reliable source. In contrast, Android developers can choose to place code signatures in their apps, but aren't required to do so.
Over the last year, several large-scale attacks have been detected in the Android Marketplace, including "HippoSMS" and DroidDream, both of which endangered users' personal information by attempting to steal it.
Anti-virus programs installed on a phone can distinguish spyware from safe apps, but the average user may not be able to tell the difference when choosing an app from the marketplace. Android's OS continues to enjoy wide popularity, and combined with the apps' innovation at evading detection, the problems are likely to multiply.
Ultimately, any app store can contain malicious apps, but if malware in the Android market continues to increase at such an alarming rate, consumers may opt for safer territory, especially with mobile payment systems on the rise.
Apps are a huge selling point for mobile device consumers, but if the security of the offerings continue to be plagued with malware and a growing uncertainty, Google may find itself in a tricky situation.
