In a blog post yesterday, Juniper found that Android malware has soared 472 percent since this past July.

And Juniper lays the blame at the foot of Google.

Of course, as Juniper points out, malicious apps are removed from Android Market after they’re discovered.

But this often happens after many people have already downloaded them.

Various security firms, includingSymantecandMcAfeehave also voiced concerns about the huge rise in Android malware.

Beyond increasing in volume, Android malware is getting more sophisticated, says Juniper.

Today, almost all Android malware has this ability, one that attackers are eager to employ.

Most Android malware apps go after communications and GPS data, according to Juniper.

Among the known malware samples, 55 percent act as spyware, collecting user information.

Android has also proven a hot spot for malware thanks to the platform’s increasing popularity.

How does Android compare with Apple’s iOS in security?

Juniper doesn’t see one platform as necessarily more secure than the other.

It’s the review process that makes the difference.

So, how do Android users protect themselves?

The Android Market offers a variety of virus scanners, both free and paid.