UK shoppers are putting their own data at risk when they shop on mobile devices, the latest research has revealed.
A survey of 1000 UK consumers by Tripwire and One Poll found that out of the 32% who have their mobile device linked to their bank or credit card, almost half have no security installed.
The research found 36% of consumers have their mobile phone linked to their work network, but 18% said they have no security protection.
When asked does the convenience of mobile phone shopping override any security concerns, 39% said yes.
The research comes at the same time shopping on mobile handsets increases this Christmas. Another survey by the security firm revealed that 63% of UK consumers will use their mobile for Christmas shopping this year, with over a quarter spending over £100.
Online mobile sales also accounted for 26% during Thanksgiving and 22% during Black Friday.
Earlier this month, NatWest and RBS customers were unable to bank on their mobile phones and use mobile phone apps because of technical problems.
Gavin Millard, EMEA technical director at Tripwire, said: "Consumers are still not recognising that cybercriminals are targeting mobile devices to collect personal information and for financial gain. Because mobile devices are linked to corporate networks and credit cards whilst storing a huge amount of private data, there is a much greater need to keep them secure and protected.
"Adding a PIN to your lock screen, checking the validity of apps before installing them, and ensuring the SSL certificates on shopping sites are correct is easy to do and will help keep the data stored on mobile devices safe from cybercriminals."
