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iPhone Security Flaw Exposed

Vulnerability could make must-have gadget a target for hackers

By Sam Biddle,  Newser Staff

Posted Jul 23, 2007 5:07 PM CDT

(Newser) – A software vulnerability in the iPhone could allow hackers to commandeer the device and steal personal information, such as text messages and contacts, or even dial expensive calls, the New York Times reports. The hack works through either a WiFi connection or by steering users to a site containing malicious code that compromises the phone's Web browser.

The founder of the security firm that exposed the flaw in the highly touted gizmo says his team's goal is to discover software weaknesses and alert companies—and consumers—before they can be maliciously exploited. “I will think twice before getting on a random public WiFi network now,” he said. A spokeswoman says Apple is investigating the report.

Jordan Golson, of Brookline, Mass., holds his newly purchased iPhone in a mall Friday, June 29, 2007 in Newton, Mass. (AP Photo/Kevin Martin)
Jordan Golson, of Brookline, Mass., holds his newly purchased iPhone in a mall Friday, June 29, 2007 in Newton, Mass. (AP Photo/Kevin Martin)   (Associated Press)
  (Associated Press)
The new Apple iPhone is seen in this June 29, 2007 file photo in New York.  (AP Photo/Jason DeCrow, file)
The new Apple iPhone is seen in this June 29, 2007 file photo in New York. (AP Photo/Jason DeCrow, file)   (Associated Press)
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