iOS has established a reputation as the more secure mobile platform. The walled garden of the Apple App Store, and the scrutiny apps must go through before theyre available provide additional layers of defense lacking in other mobile operating systems.

In this case, though, Apple seems to be choosing functionality and expediency over security. Its a decision that could come back to haunt Apple, and all iOS users.

Andrew Storms, director of security operations for , does not approve. The decision to remove password authentication from free app downloads is just another example of Apple making consumers responsible for their own security, and thats always risky at best.

My iPhone and iPad both have passcode protection implemented (as your iOS devices should as well). But, if I do happen to leave my iOS device open, or let someone borrow it for some reason, I can at least rest assured that nobody can install any apps on it without my knowledge because doing so requires my Apple ID password.

Generally speaking, the most I really have to worry about is that one of my kids might fill up my iPhone or iPad with a bunch of silly free games. However, the potential exists for much more nefarious activity. For example, someone with access to your device--a jealous lover or stalker--could install a free app like Finder+ that would let him or her monitor and track your whereabouts.