With more than six billion applications downloaded to date, it's clear that the Android Market is experiencing explosive growth and that consumers are hooked on downloading what they want, when they want it.

At the same time, consumers need to be vigilant about safeguarding their mobile phones because Symantec's latest Internet Security Threat Report, Volume 16, found that researchers identified nearly four times as many unique-to-Android pieces of malware than the previous year.

It's a frustrating experience that can be eliminated and replaced with peace of mind by taking a few easy steps to stay protected.

Anyone finding a smartphone is potentially capable of accessing the personal and private information stored on the phone.

This can include passwords, contacts, direct access to bank accounts and social networks, private messages and other privileged information.

Always password protect or screen lock your mobile device in case it is lost or stolen.

Use mobile security software that can remotely lock, wipe or locate a lost device.

Enable encryption on the phone if it is available to further protect your data.

Be diligent about app permissions on all new installed apps and upgrades. Only download apps from a trusted source and practice safe web browsing just like you would on a home PC.

Scan mobile apps to check if they are malicious and use common sense when accepting application permission requests to ensure they match the application features.

You should exercise the same level of caution you do on a PC or laptop when you encounter a strange SMS/MMS message or an unsolicited Bluetooth connection request.

You can use security software (eg, Norton Mobile Security) to safeguard your phone against malware and spam and anti-theft software to remotely lock and wipe your phone when lost or stolen.

- David Hall is Symantec's North Asia product manager.

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