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In the past, many users believed that if they avoided some of the more seedy corners of the Internet when browsing on their mobile devices, they would be at a reduced risk of malware attacks. However, a new study stated that pornography has been bumped as the top source of mobile malware, according to NBC News.

One study analyzed the information of more than 75 million mobile device users across the globe. The report surprised many with its findings, which included the discovery that as recently as last month, one out of every five mobile users affected by mobile malware were directed to the malicious entry point via a Web advertisement. This is a significant increase since figures recorded in 2012, which reported that only 5.7 percent of users were infected by malware-serving Web ads.

"Being in the security space, we're not often surprised by these stats,: said security expert Sasi Murthy. "But that is a big jump in a short period."

While mobile Web ads now hold the top spot for malware distribution, viewing pornography still accounts for a small percentage of mobile attacks, as well as 16 percent of all malware infections. For this reason, Murthy noted that "porn is still the most efficient method of malware delivery," according to NBC News.

Pre-installed malicious applications
Mobile Web advertisements aren't the only sources of mobile malware attacks. As more users leverage their smartphones, tablets and other hardware for a seemingly endless list of business and personal purposes, the platform is becoming a growing target for cybercriminals, illustrated by the different infection approaches being utilized.

PCWorld recently reported on an exchange between one security firm and a potential customer testing the product. The client told the organization that their mobile security offering was not functioning correctly, as it identified a pre-loaded Netflix application as malicious. Further investigation showed that the security software was not at fault, but that the Netflix application that came pre-downloaded on the customer's device.

"We're like, yeah, this isn't the real Netflix," said security expert David Jevans. "You've got on that has been tampered with and is sending passwords and credit card information to Russia."

Mobile malware prevention strategies
This type of infection strategy is being used more often to exploit users and disperse malware. However, there are a few steps users can take to prevent this and other attack approaches. One of the best ways to reduce the risk of infection is by utilizing a mobile monitoring solution that oversees device activity and can alert the hardware owner of suspicious activity.

Individuals should also avoid purchasing or downloading applications from third-party software platforms. PCWorld noted that many of these marketplaces disperse higher levels of mobile malware disguised as legitimate applications because they are adequately reviewed for security.

Additionally, to thwart the threat of unauthorized access to sensitive personal information, mobile consumers should be sure to carry out online transactions through trusted Web portals that leverage an SSL certificate. This protection measure serves as a better safeguard for data like payment card information and other pertinent purchasing details.

Protect data in transit with an SSL certificate today. 

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