Websense expects over 1,000 different mobile device attacks on smartphones or tablets this year. Since tablets often share the same operating systems as smartphones, they are likely to be targeted by the same malware. PandaLabs noted that Android systems will continue to be the No. 1 mobile target for cyber-crooks who will move from simply controlling devices to actually stealing cash. This will be possible due to more and more consumers handling their finances on mobile devices. McAfee believes that criminals will steal funds either through fraudulent mobile payments or techniques previously used in online banking theft, such as stealing from victims while they are still logged on while making it appear that transactions are coming from the legitimate user. Consumers need to download security software to their mobile devices, keep it updated and be more circumspect in which networks they use.

Another weak spot will be social media identity theft. Websense asserted that a person’s social media identity could be more valuable to cybercriminals than credit cards. Once a criminal knows a person’s social media log-in it’s possible to manipulate that person’s friends. Expect that criminals will buy and sell social media credentials in online forums. Imperva claimed that 2012 will see the rise of “cyberbrokers,” who match buyers of stolen data with providers of the stolen data. Consumers can improve the quality of social media security by enabling secure browsing, using longer passwords and limiting the personal information they post. See www.socialmediasecurity.com for terrific tips.

Another great tip to enhance online security is to stop using primary e-mail addresses for online registrations. These days every site asks for an e-mail address for user “registration.” Consumers should set up a throwaway address specifically for this purpose. McAfee has seen that supposedly legitimate advertisers have learned techniques from spammers, such as purchasing e-mail lists of users who have “consented” to receive advertising or purchasing customer databases from companies going out of business. Companies should inform employees not to sign up for newsletters, special offers or other solicitations using corporate e-mail accounts.

Small companies should expect to face numerous online threats this year. Criminals have learned that small- and medium-sized enterprises are weak when it comes to network security. Imperva warned that companies who make cyber security decisions to match perceived business needs instead of sticking to the requirements of secure network operations are in reality choosing disaster over profitability. Websense advised that companies must pay attention to data loss prevention and have a plan to sever communications and wcontain the damage in the event their IT resources are compromised.

Finally, PandaLabs predicts that online attacks involving political motivation or notoriety will also make headlines in 2012, including high-profile industrial attacks, cyberwarfare demonstrations and hacktivist attacks targeting public figures. Of course consumers may be inconvenienced or have their lives put in danger by such attacks, but the criminals won’t care. For them the ends will justify the means.