I have commented in the past on the difference between computer-based platforms (Mac-PC-Linux) and mobile-based platforms (iOS, Blackberry, Symbian, Android etc): in the former the hardware is in the user's control, but in the latter, the hardware is locked down and in the carrier's control. Some of the implications are obvious: in the former, you need separate identity and billing, while in the latter, it's built-in and secure. But when your device is locked-down it is much more susceptible to control and manipulation. Witness this latest scandal concerning something called Carrier IQ. According to reports, almost every mobile device uses it to track every keystroke and to send reports back to a central office. The tool was originally designed to monitor quality of service, but its surveillance potential is too significant to ignore. And then researcher Trevor Eckhart "posted video evidence (below) suggesting that Carrier IQ is recording keystrokes and reading incoming SMS messages on Android, more precisely on an HTC EVO 3D. Worse, the app cannot be stopped or removed by the user." What is being sent? Who has access to it? Who knows? See also The Verge, 9to5Google, chpwn blog, Daring Fireball, Cult of Mac, androidsecuritytest.com, Wired, LifeHacker, Connecting the Dots, Metafilter, TechDirt.
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