Previously cellphones have remained mostly free from viruses because they had been unable to connect to the internet. There were also several software platforms, which provided security through obscurity. Now though, most phones are equipped to surf, and there are common mobile OS’s. Although the mobile surfing experience may be terrible, it is still a possible infection point.

Nokia has come up with a firewall which is part of the mobile network itself. It protects mobile devices that connect to the network by setting up “pinholes” through which they can send and receive legitimate data to and from the internet. Just as with a traditional firewall, recognized data is allowed and unknown packets are automatically blocked. Link to patent.

Matthew Sparkes is a contributing author for MoT.

Previously cellphones have remained mostly free from viruses because they had been unable to connect to the internet. There were also several software platforms, which provided security through obscurity. Now though, most phones are equipped to surf, and there are common mobile OS’s. Although the mobile surfing experience may be terrible, it is still a possible infection point.

Nokia has come up with a firewall which is part of the mobile network itself. It protects mobile devices that connect to the network by setting up “pinholes” through which they can send and receive legitimate data to and from the internet. Just as with a traditional firewall, recognized data is allowed and unknown packets are automatically blocked. Link to patent.

Matthew Sparkes is a contributing author for MoT.