Future smartphone could have kill switches by default as smartphone makers agreed to add the anti-theft technology that could prevent rising number of smartphone theft.
Leading smartphone makers and wireless companies have agreed that it would incorporate the anti-theft features on smartphones which will be shipped after July 2015 in the US.
In order to deter large scale smartphone theft, the Wireless Association (CTIA) has created a voluntary commitment, under which the signatories will add kill switches in smartphones an industry standard.
CTIA president and CEO Steve Largent said the association appreciates the commitment made by these companies to protect wireless users in the event their smartphones are lost or stolen.
"This flexibility provides consumers with access to the best features and apps that fit their unique needs while protecting their smartphones and the valuable information they contain," Largent said.
"At the same time, it's important different technologies are available so that a 'trap door' isn't created that could be exploited by hackers and criminals."
"By working together with policymakers, law enforcement and consumers, we will deter theft and protect users' personal information on smartphones."
The kill switch will render the smartphone inoperable for unauthorised user, remote wipe the personal data, prevent reactivation without authorisation of the owner.
It will have provision to make it operable after the stolen phone is recovered by the authorised user and restore user data.
Several mobile operators and manufacturer have already signed the voluntary commitment including Apple, Samsung, Google, Nokia, HTC, Huawei, Motorola, Microsoft, Asurion, AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, U.S. Cellular and Verizon Wireless.
According to an estimate, the theft of smartphones and other communications devices now accounts for 30% to 40% of all robberies in the US cities.
The financial implication of the replacement of lost and stolen smartphones and tablets is about $30bn in the US while the four major carriers make about $7.8bn on theft and loss insurance products
Posted by www.anymobilesmartphone.co.uk
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