Android sees nearly 500% increase in malware since July
Google's Android platform sees new devices join its ranks on a regular basis. This widespread adoption of the operating system has allowed it to claim a huge share of the smartphone market, but it also makes it a big target for malware developers looking to cash in on stolen data. This year has been particularly gruesome for the OS, and security firm Juniper Networks has determined that the number of Android malware attacks has seen a 472% increase since July 2011.
Android's vulnerability to various types of malicious programs stems from Google's app publishing process, which is lax when compared with Apple's. When you submit an app for the iPhone or iPad, various code signing, verification, and approval steps are required before the application is allowed onto the store. These steps usually kill all malware-ridden programs before they make it to consumers' devices. Read more...
Microsoft vs Google patent ding dong gets stuck on repeat
Microsoft and Google are still engaged in a war of words over what Mountain View has claimed is a "conspiracy" against its Android platform.
We at Vulture Central recommend you take ringside seats and bring a huge bucket of popcorn for this row, as it shows little sign of slowing down.
In the latest round, Microsoft's top flack Frank Shaw wrote a series of tweets addressing the most recent catty comments from Google general counsel David Drummond, who said the software giant had tried to divert attention from the real issue behind the spat with a "false 'gotcha'". Read more...