Our smartphones will generally be safe from malicious apps as long as we only get our apps from the associated app stores and avoid jailbreaking or rooting your phone.and#160; and#8232;and#8232;Jailbreaking or rooting phones allows users to sidestep controls the manufacturers install in their devices and mostly performed by tech savvy users.and#160;and#8232;and#8232; But a scam is in circulation that will allow malicious apps to sneak onto your phone, even for those that haven't modified the controls on their smartphones.and#160;and#8232;and#8232; The scam generally begins with a well-crafted text message or email with a link to an interesting app download.and#160;and#8232;and#8232; When you tap on the link, it can start the process of exploiting just about any phone, even if the security is still in place. and#8232; This further stresses the importance of my long standing advice: If you did not specifically go looking for an app, never install it.and#160;and#8232;and#8232; These scammers are able to create very persuasive communications that can often appear to be from one of your friends through the use of hacked accounts, so always stay alert.and#160;and#8232;and#8232; For more real-time protection for your smartphone, checkout the security apps atand#160;http://lookout.com