the buzz log

Most people couldn't function without their cell phones. But mobile-addicts should beware—according to a popular article within the Buzz, it's becoming alarmingly easy for strangers to hack your phone and monitor your every move.

The blog "Geeks are Sexy" breaks down the myriad methods. First off, nefarious types can install software on a victim's phone. This mobile spyware allows the monitoring of conversations and text messages. But wait, that's not all.

More and more phones have GPS functions. Is that good or bad? According to Geeks are Sexy, the suspicious and unscrupulous could follow a person's movements with just a simple text message. After the victim opens the message, his or her cell phone is then tracked via an online map. Guaranteed to make you think twice before you play hookie.

Geeks are Sexy goes on to explain that there are also "dozens of programs" that turn a cell phone into a long-range listening device. Fortunately, searches on these devices are low indicating only a few folks are bothering to take advantage. For now.

Is all this scary? Absolutely. Legal? Heck if we know. But keep in mind that there are ways to monitor your own cell phone for suspicious spyware. If you hear clicking noises or see the phone light up at strange times, take it in to your provider for a check-up. Big brother (or ex-boyfriend) may be listening.

Filed under: Privacy, Cell Phones