The Garner group recently came out with a study stating that next year, a whopping 75% of mobile apps will fail basic security testing. That number applies to all three major operating systems: Windows, Android, and iOS.
Not only does this remind us to use caution when loading Apps, it also reminds us that we may be putting our companies at risk when logging into their networks. Many companies allow employees and guests to bring their own devices, so the security of the applications on those devices has far-reaching affects. It's a team effort in that the user and the companies need to take responsibility to ensure that everyone follows good security practices.
According to some analysts, new apps that are allowed into the app stores will now need new behavior analysis testing in addition to the current methods to determine if they are engaging in suspicious behavior.
Remember when downloading apps, they should always come from the official app stores for the particular device. Sideloading, which means to load apps from somewhere other than the official app stores, introduces additional unnecessary risk, as those applications do not necessarily have the security scrutiny that companies like Apple and Google impose upon developers before allowing their products into the stores.
In addition, ensure there is anti-malware on all mobile devices and that it remains updated with the latest definition files. By 2017, Gartner believes that data breaches will change focus to smartphone and tablet technology.
For banks and credit unions
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