“Mobile malware” is on the rise now that the number of mobile devices used in businesses is growing every day. Mobile security is beginning to get a lot more attention than ever before but sadly the majority of mobile users probably never even think about security as they download apps from the Android Marketplace.
So what can you do? Here are a few basic steps anyone can take that may help.

Be Skeptical
Do a little research and read the reviews on the application before downloading it to your phone. This isn’t a guarantee but it may give you a ‘feeling’ for whether you really want to download the app in the first place. Sometimes you will see comments that are critical of the app and may even warn you to say away.

Use AntiVirus Software
Make sure that the AntiVirus software on your email server is current and up-to-date. When you connect to your mail server although the risk is minimal, you are potentially exposing yourself to viruses and malware if the software is not current.

Use Strong Passwords
Always use passwords that are considered “strong” with Upper and lower case letters and at least one number. This is particularly important if you use or plan on using Apple’s iCloud where applications can be pushed out to other devices. (iPod, iPad, mobile phones) The more complex the password, the better.

Be Wary of SMS or MMS
Always understand what you’re allowing the application to do or access. If an application is requesting your permission to be able to send and receive SMS or MMS messages, think twice, or even three times about allowing it. Unless the application’s function.

And just as you would with your PC or laptop in the office, be cautious about what emails, attachments and URLs you choose to open. If you think it is spam, it probably is, so don’t open it. Delete it.

Using a little commonsense can go a long, long way.