Smartphones have become a global phenomenon and in Japan in
particular people are rapidly replacing their old cellphones
with new handsets that are more like small computers with ever-
increasing applications. But with the boom comes concerns for
security, and fears that personal information may be leaked via
malware or some applications. The malicious software, often in
the form of a virus, can work its mayhem unnoticed, bent on
disrupting the operation of certain systems. We look at recent
smartphone security issues and how users can protect themselves:
How can the information of smartphone users be at risk?
According to Tokyo-based Trend Micro Inc., an antivirus software
provider, certain malware has the potential to do serious harm.
One type records user phone conversations and stores it in
memory for later transmission. Another type of malware can be
used to remotely control infected smartphones, enabling
perpetrators, for example, to place calls for paid phone
services, leaving the owner stuck with a hug