I'm afraid I don't keep myself well-informed on the mobile space, and I've heard reference to malware in Android several times recently. Could someone fill me in? Is there fear of malicious software at the system level? Or is this just FUD about spammy apps?
edit: Also - it's unfortunate that only yesterday was I reading about the Scroogle campaign. Not to single out Microsoft as the only company that advertises like this, but it's sad to see them sinking to that level...
It's just spammy apps. There are very few apps that actively exploit open bugs to elevate their rights, and then mostly to facilitate jailbreaking :)
The problem of course is the screwed up rights system. Instead of presenting a big list of permissions for every app on install, how about you just ask me directly if the app is about to send a text to some number not in my contact list?
Between exploits and spam, there is also the possibility of phishing. I have heard of fake Yahoo Mail apps making the rounds but couldn't find them - maybe that was outside of the Play Market (it was in Asia, where Yahoo is big).
All device permissions should be opt-in from a checklist on first launch, and there should be an option to make your device pretend to opt-in but use fake data. "Can such-and-such app use your location?" "Sure, I am in the middle of the Pacific."
Companies highlighting problems in their competitors has been standard practice for as long as I can remember. Can we stop with the Microsoft bashing for things that everyone does? It's really sad to see HN jump on these hate-bandwagons.
Well, I can't speak of Android malware in general but from my personal experience of owning both a phone and tablet with Android the idea of malware has never crossed my mind.
Then again, I don't worry much about malware on Windows because I pay attention to what I'm doing.
edit: Also - it's unfortunate that only yesterday was I reading about the Scroogle campaign. Not to single out Microsoft as the only company that advertises like this, but it's sad to see them sinking to that level...