Internet hackers 'could target iPhone'

By Editorial Team (Monday, 30th June 2008)

Users of the new iPhone 3G are likely to be targeted by those who spread online viruses and spam, it has been claimed.

An internet security expert told the Times that the growth in users of the iPhone and other high-end handsets such as the BlackBerry will encourage hackers to infiltrate their systems.

Neil Cook, vice-president of technology services for Cloudmark, said that such smartphones will need to make up at least 20 per cent of the mobile market before they become worthwhile targets for spammers.

A recent report from analyst Credit Suisse predicted that increasing sales will see smartphone penetration reach 19 per cent next year, with the launch of Apple's new iPhone in July boosting interest in advanced handsets.

Mr Cook explained: "As new media becomes attractive to spammers, they move in there. They will move anywhere if they can make a return on investment."

The iPhone 3G will be available to UK consumers on the O2 network from July 11th.

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