Mobile users concerned about privacy security of geolocation apps
16/07/2010
Users of mobile devices are worried about their privacy and security being compromised by geolocation apps, a survey has revealed.
The research, which was conducted by security firm Webroot, found that 55 per cent of mobile users are concerned about the potential loss of privacy.
It also discovered that 39 per cent of mobile users are using location-based tools and services.
Webroot's director of consumer business development for EMEA, David Bennett, said: "People need to realise that you're not just posting any information about yourself just to a friend and that it's open to malicious code from hackers or certain sites."
Mr Bennett said that smartphone users should avoid posting sensitive information.
For example, updating your status when on holiday can let thieves know when you are away.
According to the research, women are more concerned than men about the potential dangers that can result from using geolocation apps.
Of those surveyed, 22 per cent of respondents had fallen victim to a social network phishing scam designed to steal their password details.
A separate survey of US social networking users carried out by the Marist Institute for Public Opinion found that 50 per cent of them are either concerned or very concerned about privacy.
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