Google activates kill switch for malicious Android apps

If you haven't been following the news for the past week, you may not know that there was a security breach on the Android Market. 21 applications were accepted into the Android Market that contained code which could gather several device identifier numbers, as well as the version of Android OS you are running on. Google immediately removed the suspected applications from the Android Market, but not before users downloaded them onto their smartphones.

Yesterday, Google posted details on the attack, as well as informed users what their plans are for removing the malicious apps from everyone's smartphones. Firstly, Google removed the applications suspected of accessing user information from the Market, suspended the accounts of the developers who created the apps, and contacted law enforcement. Secondly, Google has activated the Android “kill switch,” which allows the company to remove the applications from the device remotely. Next, Google has stated that they've begun pushing a security update for the Android Market for affected devices, making sure no more information is gathered. Finally, Google is working with partners to address security issues with the Android Market.

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