Malicious Software Finally Hits Your iPad
Hackers continue attempting to exploit the Internet security of the growing population of iPad owners. Analysts’ estimate over five million iPads and iPad 2s sold in the first quarter of 2011 alone. It is obvious why malicious software programmers seek to take advantage with those sales figures. Apple’s normally excellent Internet security is occasionally breached, and the iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch are currently vulnerable to the latest malicious software abuse.
Recently, the German government warned iPad and iPhone users about a hole in Apple’s iOS (mobile operating system). “Jailbreaking” an iPad allows the installation of applications, including malicious software, from outside the App Store. While letting users install whatever they wish, it also leaves iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch mobile users without Internet security and vulnerable to malicious software attacks. The latest malicious software allows a hacker to exploit iPhone or iPad Internet security after a user has clicked or downloaded a PDF. The infected PDF allows the exploitation of Internet security by installing malicious software that cybercriminals may use to steal important information, tap into phone calls and control other functions.
Versions of backdoor access into Apple’s iOS have been around since 2007 and the early days of the iPhone. Each time Apple patched the vulnerabilities, and corrected their Internet security. There is no word on how long until this hole in iPad Internet security is fixed. Currently, suggested by Gizmodo, the only correction is to use JailbreakMe 3.0, purposely cause the problem yourself and then use the PDF Patcher 2 to protect your iPad or other device. Both programs are by a hacker named comex.
On Tuesday, July 13, the French company Intego released VirusBarrier for iOS. Listed in the App Store for $2.99, it is the first malicious software scanning application approved by Apple to maintain Internet security. The application is somewhat hampered by Apple’s tight control over its file system. The system is unable to be scanned, and all scans must be made manually. It is also unable to check iPad apps for malicious software. However, protection against what is entering your iPad or iPhone is possible as users can scan email attachments before opening. Files downloaded while browsing Safari can also be checked before use. Most importantly, Internet security is possible against the current vulnerability through PDF files. While a patch from Apple is undoubtedly coming soon, VirusBarrier is a cheap alternative to guard against malicious software infecting your iPad until patch release.
About RESCUECOM:
RESCUECOM provides computer repair and computer support, 24/7: Meeting every tech support need including data recovery, virus removal, networking, wireless services, and computer support for all brands of hardware and software. For computer support or information on products, services, or computer repair, visit https://www.rescuecom.com or call 1-800-RESCUE-PC.
For More Information, Contact:
David Milman, CEO
315-882-1100
david@rescuecom.com
Filed under: apple, Internet, Internet Security, iPad, Malware, spyware