3G next big threat avenue

David Sykes, Vice President, for the Pacific Region, Symantec told SC that while 3G networks will not force the outbreak of new and unknown dangers, they increase the potency of existing threats.

“These capabilities are bringing the same risks, they’re bringing it to mobile equipment… therefore increasing the frequency and risk,” said Sykes. He also referred to Telstra’s recently launched service as one example.

“[Next G] will provide… pretty impressive amounts of capabilities… unfortunately this increases the risks,” he said.

Sykes pointed out that 3G devices have the capability to direct downloads onto an alternate IP address, which can be a security risk because the end-user is not in complete control of what’s being downloaded. To combat this, users need to be aware of the emerging threats.

“Get people to realise that the 3G world will bring risk and threats more rapidly -- they need to get their guard up,” he said.