Malicious apps send by text or email

Smartphones have been pretty safe from malicious apps as long as you stick to getting your apps from the official app stores and you don’t jailbreak your device.

Jailbreaking or rooting your phone allows you to bypass the controls put in place by the device manufacturer and is generally done by tech savvy users.

But now a new scam is beginning to circulate that can sneak a malicious app onto your smartphone, even if you haven’t modified the controls on your phone.

The scam starts with a cleverly crafted text message or email that links to an app download.

If you follow the link, it can compromise non-jailbroken iPhones or unrooted Android phones.

This underscores the importance of the long standing rule: If you didn’t go looking for it, don’t install it.

Scammers can create some very persuasive messages that appear to be from trusted sources through the hacked accounts, so stay alert.

If you want a little extra protection, checkout the free smartphone security apps at http://lookout.com