Symantec: Low security risks on iPhone
An expert at Symantec has claimed that the security risk from vulnerabilities, zero-day exploits, and widespread infection of the iPhone is low.
He writes on his blog that the 'out-of-the-box' configuration of the iPhone makes it impossible to run code on the device, making it less risky than some other mobile platforms.
In addition, Web 2.0 AJAX applications normally prompt a user before any action takes place, thus reducing the risk of the phone being compromised.
He also writes:
While vulnerabilities may be found and 0-day exploits may be released, chances of widespread infection are currently low. Surely, they won't reach the level of some of the historic threats we've seen on Windows in the past. The device is ARM-based and any code would thus likely be crafted specifically for the iPhone, and the number of iPhones is still far less than the number of Windows desktops in the world. Also, the iPhone itself can synchronize and be updated via iTunes. Many users would likely sync semi-frequently and forced patches can immediately stop a threat that is spreading via a patched vulnerability.
He noted caution, however, at those modifying the iPhone to enable third-party software to run on it.
Once the device is modified to allow third-party software to execute, malicious code will also be able to execute on the device. Generally, this means that only those who have specifically modified their device will be vulnerable.
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