Android’s Ability to Detect Malware Gets a Big Failing Grade
By Brandon Russell | 3
A North Carolina State University computer scientist put Google’s Android 4.2 malware detection capabilities to the test, and found that it failed so miserably that it’s almost laughable. According to Xuxian Jiang, of the 1,260 instances of Android malware that were loaded onto a Nexus 10, only193 triggered warnings. That’s barely 15 percent, a failing grade.
Jiang claims that Google has previously been made aware of the community’s test samples, but has thus far failed to do anything. Android has long been marred by malware dangers, with attacks allegedly quadrupling between 2011 and 2012. But even with its most advanced OS on the market, and precautions protecting users, Google hasn’t quite plugged up all the remaining holes.
Third-party companies have successfully preyed on unsuspecting users with malware apps, and it’s quite alarming that Google can’t properly detect and identify the perils of Android ownership. Jiang and the community have voiced their concerns, but it’s up to Google to make its mobile playground more secure. The search giant recently acquired a company called VirusTotal, so that just might be its first step toward offering a more secure Android. For now, stay within the confines of Google Play. It’s a scary, malware-filled world out there.
