News

Holiday shopping going mobile

November 16, 2011

Twice as many shoppers plan to use smartphones or tablets this year to purchase gifts than last year, according to research from Webroot, an Internet security provider.

In a survey of 1,215 mobile device users, Webroot assessed people's preferences for using mobile devices versus traditional means for researching and buying holiday gifts, and for planning and booking holiday trips. The study also explored how people secure themselves on their mobile devices, Chad Bacher, vice president of Mobile Solutions at Webroot, said.

"People using mobile devices are exposed to a new set of online risks: cybercriminals seed mobile markets with malicious apps that can steal your personal data or send texts and SMS messages to premium numbers," said. "Mobile security services are now a must -- lost device protection, secure web browsing, and antimalware provide essential protection."

Webroot found that 50 percent are likely to purchase holiday gifts using their smartphone or tablet this year – up from 22 percent who did in 2010. Only 40 percent of respondents, however, said they had a security app installed to block threats or remotely lock and locate a lost device. About 53 percent leave their devices unlocked – potentially exposing their personal information to prying eyes..

Securing mobile devices

Webroot security experts recommended that shoppers do the following to protect themselves:

Know the apps: Download apps only from a trusted source, and don't install it if it wants to access certain functions that it doesn't need, such as the ability to send SMS messages.

Lock the device: Most smartphones and tablets give users a choice of locking the device with a password, numeric code or pattern. Take advantage of this.

Explore mobile security services: Mobile security apps provide lost device protection, secure web browsing, and antimalware services.

Read more about customer experience.