Security systems can now block the first computer viruses attack on cell phones, but the mobile industry sees new risks stemming from upcoming open software platforms such as Google's Android. BARCELONA (Reuters) - Security systems can now block the first computer viruses attack on cell phones, but the mobile industry sees new risks stemming from upcoming open software platforms such as Google's Android. Since 2004, viruses have been able to disable phones or swell phone bills through pricey messages or unwanted calls, leading to a new security technology market. "If Android becomes a fully open platform ... and when such a platform becomes more common, risks are greater than with the current platform kings such as Symbian," said Mikko Hypponen, head of research at security software firm F-Secure. Security specialists also pointed to potential risks arising from Apple's plans to open its software platform to third party developers this month. "Apple has dealt very elegantly in the past with security issues. There will be issues. Apple will fix them," said Jan Volzke, global marketing head at McAfee's mobile unit. Roughly 65 percent of all smartphones sold in the fourth quarter used software from British supplier Symbian, according to research firm Canalys. Apple was fourth largest vendor with 7 percent of the market, following Microsoft and RIM. F-Secure and McAfee have been the leading security software vendors for mobiles, but many other anti-virus firms rolled out products for the mobile industry over the last few years... more >>>