WM5 Viruses?

[gravejoker]

Just a random thought .. Has anyone heard of any viruses/trojans/worms etc for Windows Mobile 5?

[goestoeleven]

nope.

[Xerxes8933a]

When I first got my phone I err.... how shall we say.... tried to 'extend' the trial duration of a particular piece of software by installing a cracked version which I am convinced had some kind of malware embedded in it.

After installing the cracked version of the app the phone would automatically try and make a GPRS data connection and transmit / recieve data every time it was powered up - even did so after deleting the app. I never let it stay connected for more than a few seconds so didn't have a clue what it was trying to send or recieve but I'm convinced it wasn't an anti-piracy measure.

Eventually I hard reset the device and manually reinstalled everything minus that one cracked app - I've never had the problem since and yes I did buy a genuine version of the software afterwards (less hassle in the long run :) ).

Most worrying thing is that at the same time I was evaluating most of the Antivirus/Malware packages for WM5 and none of them picked it up or flagged any errors/problems - even those supposedly supporting Heuristics.

Like I said I'm convinced the file was some kind of trojan/malware and as a note of caution to anyone considering playing around with warez'd stuff - remember play carefully!!!

[goestoeleven]

Your antivirus software didn't pick it up, because it's not a virus.

Unfortunately, the hacked product you were using was doing exactly what it was programmed to do... There is definitely something to be said for using only "Signed" applications from legitimate vendors!

I hate to say it, but "it serves you right..." Don't steal software! ;)

[Xerxes8933a]

@goestoeleven

The original poster actually asked about viruses/trojans/worms etc. not just viruses, hence my reply to him.

Regarding your comments...

Firstly, at least two of the antivirus/security software packages I was testing supposedly also detected Trojans and other malware so your somewhat conceited reply is factually incorrect.

I'd also like to point out that very few of the applications I have purchased from legitimate vendors are actually 'signed' - this was certainly the case with original vendor supplied CAB file of the 'infected' application that I eventually purchased.

Finally, I would like to remind you that I did state that I eventually bought the software concerned as I have done with all the software I use on my phone (and my PC for that matter) and therefore I resent the implication that I have 'stolen' anything.

I appreciate your comments may have been well intentioned and somewhat 'tongue in cheek' but I don't feel your comments of 'nope' and those you listed above really contributed to the discussion regarding the possibility of WM5 malware being out there...

regards...

Xerxes

[goestoeleven]

Well, I'm glad you received my message in the light-hearted manner in which it was intended.

Back to spyware/viruses/malware: people that write these things want to access/infect as many machines as possible. To do so, and to ensure their maximum bang-for-the-buck, their best bet has always been the Windows desktop install base. There's a reason why you haven't seen too many (if any) viruses for OS/2, linux, or Mac... it's simply not worth it.

Now the PPC platform is certainly growing, and contributors to this board are certainly a big part of that. Do I think that there could be a potential for bad stuff on WM5 devices? ABSOLUTELY, and you've seen it yourself.

But do I think it's an imminent threat and/or "clear and present danger?"

Nope! ;) (tongue-in-cheek again)

[Lucas0511]

We protect our desktops - and leave our GPRS/UMTS-PDAs wide open? Not me. Using http://www.protectstar.com/englisch/home.shtml firewall for WM5. Developed in Germany.

Not exactly a steal at 40 dollars I believe, but protects from phonehome, dialer and - in the Pro version - from viruses.