Expert: Roberto Serrano - 5/29/2008

Question
I have read that cell phones can unknowingly have spyware or keyloggers like computers do.  What do you know about this and can you be downloading that stuff when you have free ringtones sent to phone?  I use myxertones.com and have alot of free stuff sent to phone.  But with all the identity theft nowadays, I wonder if I am at risk doing this.
Thanks
james

Answer
Hello J,

The same way that computers have trojans and viruses cell phones have also become targets to such malicious software. It really much depends on the type of phone you have some phones do not support third party applications other phones do support third party software and those phones are more at risk than the other phones. As far as myxertones.com I have not heard any such things coming from this websites. The safest recommendation from me would be for you to use software on your pc to make your own ringtones this way you have the assurance hat you will not become victim to such acts. I also recommend for people to purchase new devices and if they must purchase a used device please perform a master clear before they begin to use the phone this will wipe the handset clear of any software. I hope that I have been of help to you if you have any further questions please do not hesitate to ask. Thank you for your question.