This is a definition I found for hack: "Slang for any type of computer programing or, more specificially, attempting to bypass a security system". Attempting to bypass a security system. That's exactly what FCA00000 did and that's exactly what Binpda did when they made use of FCA00000's AppTRK exploit to create secman.
If you thought the original hacking process was long and complicated then surely using secman is just as complex. It requires numerous steps to set it up, sign and then install the applications. SWMail's Installserver.exe mod is without doubt the easiest way to install unsigned apps. No third party apps, no signing and no computer. Just one click.
Mr-X.
Vlad
· 1 year ago
While I may agree with you on the definition, that changes nothing. The issue here is this: when a mainstream user (normob, whatever) hears the phrase "Symbian has been hacked", what does he think of? Does he think of the definition you gave? Does he think of restless and engaging people trying to do anything they can to push the limits of a certain security system? Or does he feel a certain amount of panic?
Furthermore. How will such news influence his decision to purchase a Symbian (namely S60) device? I am of course assuming this is not really your 'average' normob, but one that at least is aware that Symbian is an OS. (more on those who don't even know that in a second) So back to my point. Will he not think twice before choosing an S60 device?
People associate hacking with bad things, with illegal activities. Now while you and I (and others, but still too few) may know that it's not always about that, I really don't think there's anything I can do to change such a perception. And it is this perception that hurts Symbian and S60.
And one more thing. There are people who buy phones having no idea they have open OSs. True. These are most of the normobs out there. But let me tell you a little true story. Last year I went into a shop, part of one of the largest mobile-related retail chains in Central Europe. So I go into this shop and say "Hi, I'd like an N95, please". You know what the shop assistant said to me? "Oh, yeah, that's a nice phone, it's got this and that, but...why would you want to buy it? Don't you know it has Symbian on it? It's really buggy and will cause you all sorts of problems". I kid you not. That was what I heard. I, obviously, started laughing. But what would a normob have done? My guess is probably consider some other option. Now insert "oh, and haven't you heard...it's been HACKED!!!" and a terrified face into said shop assistant's behaviour and picture the result.
As for your ease-of-use argument, thanks for the heads up. I'll look into what you suggested after the Eseries announcement (hopefully) goes down.
And thanks for commenting here. It IS highly appreciated.
khouryrt
· 1 year ago
And somehow i find myself nodding along :) great post Vlad, great great one.
All Comments
This is a definition I found for hack: "Slang for any type of computer programing or, more specificially, attempting to bypass a security system". Attempting to bypass a security system. That's exactly what FCA00000 did and that's exactly what Binpda did when they made use of FCA00000's AppTRK exploit to create secman.
If you thought the original hacking process was long and complicated then surely using secman is just as complex. It requires numerous steps to set it up, sign and then install the applications. SWMail's Installserver.exe mod is without doubt the easiest way to install unsigned apps. No third party apps, no signing and no computer. Just one click.
Mr-X.
Furthermore. How will such news influence his decision to purchase a Symbian (namely S60) device? I am of course assuming this is not really your 'average' normob, but one that at least is aware that Symbian is an OS. (more on those who don't even know that in a second) So back to my point. Will he not think twice before choosing an S60 device?
People associate hacking with bad things, with illegal activities. Now while you and I (and others, but still too few) may know that it's not always about that, I really don't think there's anything I can do to change such a perception. And it is this perception that hurts Symbian and S60.
And one more thing. There are people who buy phones having no idea they have open OSs. True. These are most of the normobs out there. But let me tell you a little true story.
Last year I went into a shop, part of one of the largest mobile-related retail chains in Central Europe. So I go into this shop and say "Hi, I'd like an N95, please". You know what the shop assistant said to me? "Oh, yeah, that's a nice phone, it's got this and that, but...why would you want to buy it? Don't you know it has Symbian on it? It's really buggy and will cause you all sorts of problems". I kid you not. That was what I heard. I, obviously, started laughing. But what would a normob have done? My guess is probably consider some other option. Now insert "oh, and haven't you heard...it's been HACKED!!!" and a terrified face into said shop assistant's behaviour and picture the result.
As for your ease-of-use argument, thanks for the heads up. I'll look into what you suggested after the Eseries announcement (hopefully) goes down.
And thanks for commenting here. It IS highly appreciated.