TMCnet News
Zacks Investment Research Take On Google's (GOOG) Android Security IssuesCHICAGO, Mar 07, 2011 (PR Newswire Europe via COMTEX) -- Rich Cannings, the security lead for Google Inc's (GOOG) popular Android OS, wrote in a blog post that the company is remotely removing malicious apps from infected phones. Google (GOOG) is doing this through the "kill-switch" that already exists on all Android phones. (Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20101027/ZIRLOGO) The malicious code, which reads users' personal information, has been discovered on 58 apps and more than 260,000 phones (lower than Android 2.2.2 version) have been affected. Google (GOOG) has already removed the apps from its marketplace and intends to email users of the affected phones, as well as the ones that have already been cleaned. However, considering the uncomfortable feeling that users might get as a result, it may not go through with this in the end. While Google's (GOOG) proactive security measures will be encouraging for some users, most are likely to view the sacrifice of their privacy negatively. Whether it is the hackers or Google, the fact that other people have control over their devices is not likely to go down too well. App writers are also not likely to take it in stride. The fact that Google (GOOG) does not have good enough app-vetting machinery like Apple Inc (AAPL) will no doubt be on their minds. Google (GOOG) has promised an arrangement with unnamed partners (mobile operators or hardware providers, we are unable to determine) that would improve the future security of Android devices. Google (GOOG) will also introduce the Android Market Security Tool March 2011 that can remove the malicious code and scan new apps for malware. Hackers will no doubt work their way around it, so we look forward to further details on the arrangement with "partners." The question of mobile security brings to mind Intel Corp's (INTC) recent acquisition of McAfee and the thought that a secure chip may soon be available is encouraging. Intel has stated that a number of phones and tablets incorporating the new technology will ship in the second half of 2010. The only other mobile phone OS (other than Android and iOS) of the same genre is Microsoft Corp's (MSFT) Windows Phone 7 OS. Microsoft still commands a relatively small share of the global mobile phone market, although its agreement with Nokia Corp (NOK) could change things. Microsoft has bundled some security software with its computing OS, so future versions of its Windows Phone 7 OS could do likewise. We have a Zacks #3 Rank (short-term Hold rating) on Google (GOOG), Intel and Microsoft shares, a Zacks #4 Rank (short-term Sell rating) on Nokia shares and a Zacks #2 Rank on Apple shares (short-term Buy rating). About Zacks Equity Research Zacks Equity Research provides the best of quantitative and qualitative analysis to help investors know what stocks to buy and which to sell for the long-term. Continuous coverage is provided for a universe of 1,150 publicly traded stocks. Our analysts are organized by industry which gives them keen insights to developments that affect company profits and stock performance. Recommendations and target prices are six-month time horizons. Zacks "Profit from the Pros" e-mail newsletter provides highlights of the latest analysis from Zacks Equity Research. Subscribe to this free newsletter today About Zacks Zacks.com is a property of Zacks Investment Research, Inc., which was formed in 1978 by Leonard Zacks. As a PhD in mathematics Len knew he could find patterns in stock market data that would lead to superior investment results. Amongst his many accomplishments was the formation of his proprietary stock picking system; the Zacks Rank, which continues to outperform the market by nearly a 3 to 1 margin. The best way to unlock the profitable stock recommendations and market insights of Zacks Investment Research is through our free daily email newsletter; Profit from the Pros. In short, it's your steady flow of Profitable ideas GUARANTEED to be worth your time! Register for your free subscription to Profit from the Pros Visit our Stock Performance page for information about the performance numbers displayed in this press release. Visit our Stock Market Today page for the latest market action. Zacks Investment Research Twitter Zacks Investment Research Facebook Disclaimer: Past performance does not guarantee future results. Investors should always research companies and securities before making any investments. Nothing herein should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any security. Media Contact Rex Camposagrado [email protected] http://www.zacks.com 312-265-9427 CONTACT: Rex Camposagrado of Zacks Investment Research, Inc.,+1-312-265-9427, [email protected] Web site: http://www.zacks.com/ |