September 08, 2004

By: Wendy Whittaker
Website: http://www.1st-in-cell-phones.com

Mobile Phone Technology Encounters Its First Virus

It was almost a coming-of-age event for mobile phone technology. The first known virus to be spread through mobile phone technology was discovered in June 2004. The creator of the virus sent it to anti-virus mobile phone companies, almost as a warning stating that mobile phone viruses are possible.

The first mobile phone virus was a harmless worm known as Cabir. No actual infections of Cabir have been reported and experts say the virus is nothing that mobile phone users need worry about. When a phone is infected, its screen will display the word “Caribe.” Each time the phone is turned on the worm will launch and attempt to spread copies of itself to nearby mobile phones. The user of the mobile phone that the virus is attempting to infect would have to agree to accept a file from an unknown source—an unlikely event.

The Cabir virus can spread only through mobile phones equipped with Bluetooth technology.

Those who work with mobile phones and who understand viruses say that while Cabir was benign, we now know that code exists that is able to infect mobile phones. Harmful viruses that could wipe out contact information or data stored on mobile phones are very possible. Another type of virus could send messages that appear to come from the infected phone.

Mobile technology experts say that the day will soon come when mobile phones will need anti-virus protection just like PCs. Look for firewalls and anti-virus software to be part of the mobile phone world of the future.

Also See: ALLTEL prepaid phones.

About The Author:

Wendy Whittaker is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.1st-in-cell-phones.com.  A cellular phone industry resource featuring articles, comparisons and reviews of cellular phone and service plans.