FTC Expresses Concerns Over Mobile Security Updates

In its recent report (Mobile Security Updates: Understanding the Issues), the FTC expressed concerns with the process for keeping mobile devices updated and secure. Of particular concern for the FTC were inconsistencies in the length of time that support is offered for mobile devices, the frequency of updates and the perceived lapse of time between identifying a vulnerability and effectively installing a patch on consumers' devices. Further, the FTC was worried that information about device support and update frequency is not always clear to consumers, and is not always maintained by manufacturers.

To address these concerns the FTC recommended that those in the mobile device industry commit to supporting devices for as long as consumers would expect such support. Customer expectations could be managed through policies and contracts. The FTC also recommended pushing out regularly scheduled updates and, of particular concern, asked device manufacturers to (a) prioritize