The current state of mobile device security patches is lacking, according to a new report issued today by the Federal Trade Commission.
The FTC studied how Apple, BlackBerry, Google, HTC, LG, Microsoft, Motorola, and Samsung support their devices over time.
“Our report found significant differences in how the industry deploys security updates and that more needs to be done to make it easier for consumers to ensure their devices are secure,” said Acting Director Tom Pahl.
The agency notes that many devices are updated infrequently, if at all, and that manufacturers often fail to deliver on promises. It wants phone makers and carriers to improve the situation. The agency suggested each does a better job of explaining mobile device security to consumers (i.e., Teach owners why updates are important and worth installing).
The FTC also recommended that phone makers consider issuing security patches as stand-alone updates, rather than bundled with general OS upgrades.
The FTC noted that companies that make their own operating system, in this case, Apple and Google, are often better at providing timely updates for a longer period of time.
The FTC is calling for members of the mobile industry to find a way to bring clarity to consumers and more rapid security updates.
