All Java Phones at Risk From New Mobile Virus

All Java Phones at Risk From New Mobile Virus

malebolgia on 28 February 2006 - 15:26 · 12 comments & 5017 views

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Security software house Kaspersky is warning of a new mobile virus that does not just target smartphones but any mobile capable of running Java (J2ME) applications. The malware claims to be an application called RedBrowser, which allows mobile users to access WAP services without using a WAP connection by using a free SMS service.

In fact it sends data to a premium SMS service which charges around $5 per message. "RedBrowser is a sign that virus writers are extending their reach and no longer targeting only smartphones," said Olga Kobzareva, Kaspersky's corporate communications officer.

News source: vnunet.com

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#1 WoodlandSpirit on 28 Feb 2006 - 15:32

"free SMS service"

That alone should send alarm bells ringing really, ah well, simple users and all.

#2 Schnitzel on 28 Feb 2006 - 15:40

Thanks for the heads up.
I'll tell my sister about this - she's a complete n00b :p

#3 Croquant on 28 Feb 2006 - 16:00

Wow. A java-related security risk. I never would have guessed. Next you'll be telling me that the sky is blue.

(1 reply) #4 Netrack on 28 Feb 2006 - 16:26

cant you just sue the company that charges you the $5 permessage? as it would seem they are behind this

#4.1 DeanNapper on 28 Feb 2006 - 16:30

how would it seem they are behind this? Are PayPal behind the PayPal phishing scams that go on?

#5 Colin-uk on 28 Feb 2006 - 16:46

How do you 'catch' the virus? do you have to download it and install it yourself or..?

(1 reply) #6 Magallanes on 28 Feb 2006 - 16:46

It's not a virus its only a TROJAN!.

Kaspersky don't known the difference?, or they try to create a fuss for sell antivirus?.

So, you don't need to install, download or buy (now or in the future) any stupid antivirus for cellphone, just you need to avoid install suspicous program.

In fact for pocketpc there are antivirus since 2003 but no virus! (pathetic).

#6.1 undomiel on 28 Feb 2006 - 18:42

Actually if you take a look at Kaspersky's press release you'll notice that they are labeling it malware and a trojan, but not a virus. Olga Kobzareva in this news clipping refers to the creators as "virus writers" which seems to be a blanket name. She doesn't call the trojan a virus herself. It's vnunet.com that is calling it a virus so I would suggest ranting at them instead.

#7 matt74441 on 28 Feb 2006 - 20:08

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#8 Unplugged on 01 Mar 2006 - 10:40

As soon as I brought my first Java Enable mobile phone years ago I said to a mate how easy it would be to write a Java application to send messages to a Premium Rate number or even dial a premium rate number. I could never be bothered as im not that low but mobile phone viruses have been an in thin now for a while ever since they started bundeling OSes into phones.

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All Java Phones at Risk From New Mobile Virus

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