iPhone SMS Vulnerability Hole Patched
Apple recently released a patch for a vulnerability in its iPhone that was announced at the Black Hat Security Conference late last week. The security flaw makes it possible for an attacker to have complete control over the device, including any data stored on it. Apple was informed prior to the Black Hat conference and has recently released a security update to the Apple OS (iPhone OS 3.0.1) available via iTunes.
In a statement released to The Wall Street Journal, Apple downplayed the vulnerability by noting that no one had actually lost any personal information through the exploitation of the vulnerability.
FCC Questions Apple and AT&T
This month the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) sent letters to Apple and AT&T to inquire their recent rejection of “Google Voice,” a unique call-management system available for Apple’s iPhone. So far no one knows why Apple rejected the app, though some speculate that the decision was influenced by pressure from AT&T.
Google Voice offers a single-unified lifetime phone number connecting an individual’s home, work, and cell phone numbers. The application also includes free conference calling, cheaper international calls, and the option to turn voice mails into e-mails.
Despite the rejection, many have noted that Google Voice will revolutionize how we use the telephone. It is currently available by invitation only with BlackBerry and Android phones.
