Spyware Report Finds iOS To Be Most Secure Mobile OS
A malware inspection report thought to be from the Gamma Group has leaked over the Internet and been commented on by the esteemed Washington Post, found that iOS is by far the most secure mobile OS on the market. Though it's also known to have some security flaws too.
The company used FinSpy spyware software to attempt to hack into mobile operating systems like iOS, BlackBerry, Android and Windows Mobile.
The FinSpy software was used to see whether a hacker could use this software to access the phone calls, address book, text messages and microphone audio stream during essentially invisible phone calls that pick up sound and can listen in on the smart phone owner. Attempts were also be made to trace the location of each mobile device in the test.
The software used by the Gamma Group is intended to provide opportunities to infiltrate, as well as test, mobile devices for possible methods of penetration. Law enforcement and government agencies have been known to make use of the software seeking background information and credible intelligence that can be used to build a case against individuals or companies.
Arguments Against Jailbreaking an iOS Device
iOS versions 4.3, 5, 6 and 7 were all tested. They provied to be impenetrable when the device was basically the same as when it came out of the factory. However, for owners who had used an untethered jailbreak on their iPhone, this made the iOS device vulnerable and then it could be accessed by FinSpy software.
We covered more reasons not to Jailbreak your iPhone in our article Top Reasons Not to Jailbreak iOS.
How Did Other Mobile Platforms Fair?
Among the other platforms tested with the software, FinSpy software successfully gained access to Android versions 2.x.x to 4.4, Symbian, Windows Mobile 6.1 and 6.5 (Windows Phone 8 is not yet supported) and BlackBerry 5.x-7.x.
Is Non-Jailbroken iOS Completely Secure?
Not so fast. Researchers at Georgia Tech University found a way to use a compromised Windows system infected with an automated bot-net. When linked up to an iPhone via a USB connection through Windows, it was possible to then circumvent the iOS security. As they say, you're only as good as your weakest link.
