Now that jailbreaking iPhones is completely legal, fans are raving about jailbreaking their devices. Who wouldn’t be? Even if I don’t own an iPhone, the prospect of seeing what other folks would and could do to their devices is enough to get me hyped up.

However, this would open the floodgates of potential security risks for iPhone and iPad users. I received an email from BitDefender warning against a new malware threat that has taken advantage of the jailbreaking craze:

BitDefender has identified a malware distribution campaign in which users receive an email where they find out they could receive a new application for iPhone jailbreaking. All the email recipient has to do is click a link that will take them to the webpage where the desired software awaits.

As the email recipient goes further into this labyrinth and clicks the link, an exe file attempts to download to their computer. But once saved and run, the executable opens the way for a Trojan.

Identified by BitDefender as Trojan.Generic.3010833, this piece of malware is a keylogger that transmits everything the user writes on the computer to a specific email address, in this particular case to directory[REMOVED]@hotmail.com.

This allows the malware creators to intercept the victim’s visited sites, usernames, passwords, and bank accounts information – such as pin number, bank account numbers, passwords, etc.

Common sense would be a good first line of defense. If you’re going to jailbreak your iPhone or iPad, be very careful about any third-party app you’re going to install because it might just be loaded with malware. Do some background check on it first, like asking the developer or users who have already used the app.

Stay safe and have fun with jailbreaking your iPhones and iPads!

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Secure PC on a USB on steroids

It’s a USB thumb drive the size of a chewing gum stick but embedded with Lockheed Martin’s IronClad technology that powers the operating system right off the USB device. All in this in a 8GB space secured with 256-bit encryption software. The actual USB device is encased in a rugged, water- and shock-resistant metal case.

It’s key features include:

• 256-bit, military-grade encryption protects everything on the drive, all the time.
• Built-in secure software applications and browser protect you from malware and viruses.
• Remote management lets you turn lost or stolen drives into “bricks” – permanently deleting all data – to ensure your data stays secure.
• Managed, “white-listed” application portfolio means no unauthorized programs or applications can be loaded into the system – you have total control at all times.
• Embedded security policies keep a close watch on the system at all times, seeking out potential threats or risks.
• Rugged, solid metal casing is waterproof and tough enough to withstand significant shock, heat and cold.

The basic idea is for you to take not just your files, but your entire PC environment in a secure USB drive and use it in almost any PC or laptop you can find. With its security features, malware, viruses and rootkits are blocked off and your files never actually ‘touch’ the hard drive of the PC you’re using. It’s like carrying your PC and all your files including those highly sensitive ones like your p0rn or business plans in a safe in your pocket.

It would be ideal for those who are mobile, carry and do a lot of work in the field, like police, medical professionals, business men and others. Perhaps the COMELEC would like to avail of this IronClad USB device for use this coming 2010 automated elections. It’s another layer of security in protecting our votes.

Pricing has not been announced yet, but you can visit Lockheed Martin’s website for more information.

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