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.
Advertisement
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.
"Mobile phone users are recommended to be cautious and not to download or
launch unknown programs via the internet."
The mobile owner has to download the software themselves, either via
Bluetooth or from a WAP site or the internet.
So far only one copy of the malware has been found in the wild, targeting
subscribers of Russian mobile service providers Beeline, MTS and Megafon.
But Kaspersky warned that it is likely to spread and be used to target other
mobile telephony providers.
The Trojan can be easily removed from the handset using standard utilities
already installed on the telephone.
Do you agree?
Have your say on this article