Android Malware: Why You Shouldn't Be Scared

If you've read much news lately, you know it's that time of year again -- time for the semiannual Android malware freakout show.

You know what I'm talking about: Some company, usually one that happens to sell a virus protection program for Android, comes out with a slew of blogs and press releases warning us of a super-duper-scary virus monster just waiting to attack vulnerable Android phones. Countless news stories follow, making sure we're aware of the unprecedented danger headed our way. Soon, the streets of America fill with men and women flinging their phones and running for their lives.

All right, that last part might be a stretch, but you get where I'm going here. Our latest Android malware episode started a few days ago when Lookout, a company that -- wait for it -- sells a virus protection program for Android, posted a blog and sent out a press release warning of a newly found threat. Called "DroidDream," the threat lurked in about 50 apps within the Android Market, Lookout said. If installed on your phone, those apps could potentially let an attacker install additional programs and ultimately access some of your device's data.