81 per cent of US smartphone owners worried about data safety

While more than half are baffled by the idea of mobile security.

With over 75 million viruses in circulation, smartphone users certainly have cause to be concerned. Especially those on Android which we reported is the OS under the most attack from malware, receiving a 37 per cent growth in Q3 2011.

Smartphone antivirus supplier NetQin Mobile says nine out of ten smartphone users are aware their devices contain personal data and 81 per cent are worried about it, but 58 per cent are bewildered and claim they don't know enough about mobile security to decide whether they need it or not.

Results show 78 per cent were worried about their lost/stolen phone having its contents being misused, while 67 per cent were concerned about losing their password data.

The report says users would be willing to add security to protect banking and other financial data on their phone, but are least willing to add security to protect their multimedia.

Michael Kaiser, executive director of the National Cyber Security Alliance, said: "The mobile smartphone has truly arrived in American society. Consumers of all ages, incomes and education levels are using their smartphones every day for a wide variety of activities, ranging from taking photos and sending texts and emails, to playing games, accessing social media, and conducting banking.