Consumers are not adequately aware of the security risks associated with mobile phones, according to an industry expert.

Tony Neate, managing director of Get Safe Online, has said that although viruses are not yet common on mobile phones, there has been an increase in 'SMiShing'.

This follows the same principle as Phishing and can involve mobile users receiving texts telling them they have subscribed to a service and need to send their phone number to unsubscribe.

Mr Neate remarked: "There are scams like this taking place a little bit more. The big fear is that as mobile phones become more technologically advanced and more mobile, viruses can be passed on to some of these phones."

The advice comes as the internet security industry has identified an increase in the number of cyber-criminals using spam and social engineering to spread malware.

In its 2008 Mobile Security Report, McAfee reports that mobile security is not as extensive as in the PC market and more than 72 per cent of phone users are concerned about the security of emerging mobile phone services, with 86 per cent worried about receiving inappropriate or unsolicited content.


© Adfero Ltd