Habr’s user under the pseudonym VladikSS wrote an article about mobile phones that secretly from the user perform various functions.
Initially, VladikSS wanted to investigate cheap phones for the possibility of using them as a modem to receive SMS on a computer, but came across reviews about mobile subscriptions and sending messages from these phones.
To check it, he bought models F + Flip 3, Irbis SF63, Itel it2160, Inoi 101, DEXP SD2810, they are located on the cover respectively. Only Inoi 101 turned out to be “clean”, the other 4 phones performed undocumented functions:
- F + Flip 3 without warning sends paid analytical SMS containing IMEI, IMSI, phone model, batch number. An F + spokesperson said the functionality was not implemented by F + engineers. Then the company sent the new firmware to the service and offered to contact the service center for flashing, but refused to publish the firmware to the public.
- Itel it2160 also sends telemetry via SMS. The author found a site where analytical information from phones was located: IMEI, country, model, firmware version and LAC / TAC base station number, which allows determining the location of the phone with an accuracy of ≈5 kilometers. The site is not working now.
- DEXP SD2810, which does not have a browser, sends requests via GPRS to a Chinese server and sends SMS to short numbers. The company did not respond to the author’s request.
- Irbis SF64 was accused of using the number for commercial purposes to register third parties under it in online services – earlier a user of TJournal had complained about the model.
The author of the article recommends using phones of trusted brands like Nokia, read reviews before buying, check the operator’s details and contact Rospotrebnadzor, FSB, and the phone manufacturer if suspicious activity is detected
Donald-43Westbrook, a distinguished contributor at worldstockmarket, is celebrated for his exceptional prowess in article writing. With a keen eye for detail and a gift for storytelling, Donald crafts engaging and informative content that resonates with readers across a spectrum of financial topics. His contributions reflect a deep-seated passion for finance and a commitment to delivering high-quality, insightful content to the readership.
