Database Users

WM5 Viruses?

Just a random thought .. Has anyone heard of any viruses/trojans/worms etc for Windows Mobile 5?

nope.

When I first got my phone I err.... how shall we say.... tried to 'extend' the trial duration of a particular piece of software by installing a cracked version which I am convinced had some kind of malware embedded in it.
After installing the cracked version of the app the phone would automatically try and make a GPRS data connection and transmit / recieve data every time it was powered up - even did so after deleting the app. I never let it stay connected for more than a few seconds so didn't have a clue what it was trying to send or recieve but I'm convinced it wasn't an anti-piracy measure.
Eventually I hard reset the device and manually reinstalled everything minus that one cracked app - I've never had the problem since and yes I did buy a genuine version of the software afterwards (less hassle in the long run ).
Most worrying thing is that at the same time I was evaluating most of the Antivirus/Malware packages for WM5 and none of them picked it up or flagged any errors/problems - even those supposedly supporting Heuristics.
Like I said I'm convinced the file was some kind of trojan/malware and as a note of caution to anyone considering playing around with warez'd stuff - remember play carefully!!!

Your antivirus software didn't pick it up, because it's not a virus.
Unfortunately, the hacked product you were using was doing exactly what it was programmed to do... There is definitely something to be said for using only "Signed" applications from legitimate vendors!
I hate to say it, but "it serves you right..." Don't steal software!

@goestoeleven
The original poster actually asked about viruses/trojans/worms etc. not just viruses, hence my reply to him.
Regarding your comments...
Firstly, at least two of the antivirus/security software packages I was testing supposedly also detected Trojans and other malware so your somewhat conceited reply is factually incorrect.
I'd also like to point out that very few of the applications I have purchased from legitimate vendors are actually 'signed' - this was certainly the case with original vendor supplied CAB file of the 'infected' application that I eventually purchased.
Finally, I would like to remind you that I did state that I eventually bought the software concerned as I have done with all the software I use on my phone (and my PC for that matter) and therefore I resent the implication that I have 'stolen' anything.
I appreciate your comments may have been well intentioned and somewhat 'tongue in cheek' but I don't feel your comments of 'nope' and those you listed above really contributed to the discussion regarding the possibility of WM5 malware being out there...
regards...
Xerxes

Well, I'm glad you received my message in the light-hearted manner in which it was intended.
Back to spyware/viruses/malware: people that write these things want to access/infect as many machines as possible. To do so, and to ensure their maximum bang-for-the-buck, their best bet has always been the Windows desktop install base. There's a reason why you haven't seen too many (if any) viruses for OS/2, linux, or Mac... it's simply not worth it.
Now the PPC platform is certainly growing, and contributors to this board are certainly a big part of that. Do I think that there could be a potential for bad stuff on WM5 devices? ABSOLUTELY, and you've seen it yourself.
But do I think it's an imminent threat and/or "clear and present danger?"
Nope! (tongue-in-cheek again)

We protect our desktops - and leave our GPRS/UMTS-PDAs wide open? Not me. Using http://www.protectstar.com/englisch/home.shtml firewall for WM5. Developed in Germany.
Not exactly a steal at 40 dollars I believe, but protects from phonehome, dialer and - in the Pro version - from viruses.

Using the HD in the third world

I am a complete newbie and I am going to be spending the next 6 months in southern Laos. I need to use my HD as my primary internet communications device. I know that GPRs signal there is good and Edge services have just begun to reach the area I will be in.
Does anybody have any good recommendations or suggestions of programs that are stable they would load to the HD before going?
If I completely screw my device up what do I do? does clearing the memory take care of everything like it does on an iPhone? Is it possible to brick the HD easily?
I will be using the HD as a stand alone internet device as well as tethering. I will also use it to try to show the locals I little bit of tech. I know as stupid as I sound now you could question what I could even teach them.
Even so some of these people haven't seen a computer before. So some very basic stuff will go a long ways. I wish somebody better was going to go do this. I am not perfect for the task at hand but will try my best.
What sort of things would you do if you couldn't get more than GPRS if things went wrong? Are there any programs that could be used for educational purposes on this device? Bear in mind there are no projectors or anything else of that nature.
I have a Windows PC and a Mac to use and around a TB between internal and external storage. I am not even sure of what I am asking for here but what would you bring if you wanted to try to show people some basic things.
Some of the things I do include small slide shows (wghich sometimes do to no constant source of electricity can't be done on the laptops) for children which can be done on the HD or my iPhone. I also design buildings so people get a picture of what they are building and have helped draw out a bridge that spans the Mekong.
I forgot to add that there is only electricity there 3 hours a day if that adds some perspective. If this is the wrong place to ask for help then I am sorry.
I know my questions are a bit unusual but I am trying to make sure I am not missing some thing obvious. Is there something you would bring in addition to the items I mentioned. What am I forgetting?

I've never heard of Laos but I assume from your description that it is somewhere in Yorkshire, right? If so then I suspect that the HD will be so far removed from the locals' normal frame of reference that it'll only confuse them. You'd be better off trying to introduce something more basic and useful like running water or nylon.
Interesting situation though. I didn't realise the UK carriers had signal in such remote and backward places.

Just keep a backup of your contacts/messages etc with some backup tools you can find around, if anything goes wrong you can simply reset the device to its ex-factory settings.
For the other questions.. since I still haven't get my HD I don't have a clue yet
For battery issue, if the electricity supply is limited, I recommend you to turn off the mobile at night and try to make minimum usage of the phone since such a big screen, fast processor, loads of functions will drain the battery quickly with intensive usage.
By the way, Laos is a country in Asia.
Greets from China.
Maddie

Ryaniuk,
I suggest that you buy along a few spare battery and have them charged up during the hours when the generators are up, so that you are able to swap them in to last the whole days. Of course it should also take care of the situation when there is unexpected failure of generators, etc.
Also, not sure if GPS could be of use to you. The most popular GPS software in Asia is MapKing. Not sure they have a Laos map, but I'd check if I'm you. If you are going to a remote village, I'd look for some traking type GPS software to ensure I can get around, and get out if needed. Bring with you all your spare batteries.
One of the areas you might find important in such an environement is access to news. Make sure you're happy with the RSS features. If not, install a third party software that you could be happy with before going.
I'd also install a paint program ( or just use Notes that come with the HD) , in case you need to get a local to scribble some local words that you critically need (e.g., where is the toilet?, can you take me to...etc). I assume the standard keyboard may not be able to enter local language, that's why a good paint program on the HD with stylus would come in very handy.
If you need to write any report, do any planning etc, I suggest you get SoftMaker, which gives you exactly the same desktop functinalities on your HD, without having to use your notebook.
Then, come to mobile phone signal. Well, we do not know if you 'll have 3G coverage. However this would only affect your speed. It should still allow you to keep contact with the rest of the world via email, surf internet to keep with with things etc.
As for program, you should try to download the cab files of all your program and save them into your storage card before hand. Make sure that your registry value is set to NOT delete these cab files after installation. This is to allow you to reinstall these third party software in the event that you need to do a hard reset. I do not know your need to recommend any software to you, unless you let us know what you intend to do with your device.
There is no way you can brick your device by a hard reset. You will brick it only if you try to flash your device with a wrong ROM without first do a CID unlock of HD. Check under the section on hard spl once in a while to see if this unlocking tool is available.
Not sure of your mission in Laos. Is that related to education? Some years ago, I donated some old notebook to a missionary in one of these Indochina countries. He was actually there to create a written language for a minority tribe. He tried to teach the local some computers, and charged them a nominal 10 to 20 cents fee (to cover electricity etc), to let them learn to type. Eventually his aim was to create a local langauge Bible for them. Not sure how far he's achieved by now. In his case, he did need lots of computer, as it was also a way to build relationship with the locals. People were in awe with such a thing.
As for children, I recommend some paint program or similar, some simple children game if they have not been exposed to computer before.
I salute you for volunteering your time to good cause. Hope my suggestions helps, and let me know if I can be of any further help.
Cheers.
P/S Just curious. Did'nt you return your HD? Are you getting it again?

Anti-Theft software for TP2

Hey guys,
This is my first ever thread on the XDA forum.
After saving up for a long long long time, I am now a proud owner of a TP2. And now, I am constantly worried about it getting stolen(my past two phones were stolen).
I know this topic has been discussed for other phones before. But is anyone using a good anti-theft software on their TP2? Are any of the softwares recommended for other phones in this forum giving any errors with TP2?
I dun mind spending a bit on it. I read about the Ultimate Theft Alert v3.5 and the Sprite Terminator. The sprite guys are having some promotion for HTC owners. Does that mean it is highly recommended for HTC devices?
I am not a developer and is pretty dumb about flashing roms and all that (even though I cant wait to learn more. Expecting all your help and co-operation). So please provide me a simple solution for this.
Thanks guys

koopharaoh said:
Hey guys,
This is my first ever thread on the XDA forum.
After saving up for a long long long time, I am now a proud owner of a TP2. And now, I am constantly worried about it getting stolen(my past two phones were stolen).
I know this topic has been discussed for other phones before. But is anyone using a good anti-theft software on their TP2? Are any of the softwares recommended for other phones in this forum giving any errors with TP2?
I dun mind spending a bit on it. I read about the Ultimate Theft Alert v3.5 and the Sprite Terminator. The sprite guys are having some promotion for HTC owners. Does that mean it is highly recommended for HTC devices?
I am not a developer and is pretty dumb about flashing roms and all that (even though I cant wait to learn more. Expecting all your help and co-operation). So please provide me a simple solution for this.
Thanks guys
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I do not think that will be easy that an anti-thief fully protect your investiment:
Normally first think every thief does is shutdown the equipment and remove the SIM Card. After that he could simply Hard Reset the equipment, returning the equipment itself to factory specs, so the anti-thief software is deleted. He can also change the IMEI in a relatively simple way.
Main tactics:
Never show your equipment if you are in a relatively empty street, train station, etc;
Always use the equipment with a firmly grip on it and always watching the surroudings;
This is simple common sense...
I know, that is going a little paranoic but some care is always a good thing.

Good point!!
Hey Black Phoenix,
thanks for the reply. for some reason, I didn't think of the possibility of the thief doing a hard reset.
But, I feel it is still worth investing on a software like Ultimate Theft Alert coz there is still a chance that the thief might not do a hard reset. So can you recommend a good software among the popular ones that works for TP2? I forgot to mention that I am from Singapore. I dunno whether my location makes any difference?
I still have not played with my phone a lot. But i believe TP2 has GPS? So doesnt that mean some of these softwares can give me the coordinates of my phone? Will my location matter for this feature?

koopharaoh said:
Hey Black Phoenix,
thanks for the reply. for some reason, I didn't think of the possibility of the thief doing a hard reset.
But, I feel it is still worth investing on a software like Ultimate Theft Alert coz there is still a chance that the thief might not do a hard reset. So can you recommend a good software among the popular ones that works for TP2? I forgot to mention that I am from Singapore. I dunno whether my location makes any difference?
I still have not played with my phone a lot. But i believe TP2 has GPS? So doesnt that mean some of these softwares can give me the coordinates of my phone? Will my location matter for this feature?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As I told, first thing that any thief does is shutdown the phone and trow away the sim card. With the phone shutdown, no gps coordinates or remote lock. And believe in me, the ones that steal know very well to cover the tracks, so for sure they know how to hard reset a phone (I'm still looking for my Asus P535. For sure is now hardreseted and IMEI diferent, and also had GPS. It was stealed 1 year ago).

Install this. It's FREE. If a theif changes the sim card, you will automatically recieve an SMS to the numbers you have configured in the software. You will recieve his phone number + IMEI details. Configure your e-mail address and atleast 2 different phone numbers in the software so once you recieve the theifs new phone number or if he has not changed the sim card then you can send a special text message (read software tutorial) to you sim card or theifs new sim card which will activate the gps and text the co-ordinates to the nominated phone numbers you would have configured and an e-mail with link to google maps showing exactly where the phone is.
This thing works 100%. My house was under google maps with the right house and street address. I was stunned.
Also a thief is not literate enough to jump aboard XDA forum and search "How to hard reset a Touch Pro 2". They don't have time and most don't even know that technology like this exists.
Also once the Hard SPL comes out for TP2 and Cooked roms start releasing, you can either cook your own ROM with this software pre-installed with the right settings or request someone to cook a ROM for you with the right e-mail and phone number settings you want so even if a theif does a hard reset, software will still be installed again with those settings.
And to uninstall this software, theif needs to enter the password which you need to configure. I recommend you go through the tutorial.
oh and IMPORTANT. Install this to device memory because if he takes out your memory card and it's installed on the memory card then everything will be useless.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=394203

wow powersquad.. that's sick software.. curious though if it works..
maybe that new 'phonecreeper' that the xda-member wrote could have possibilities of tracking your phone after theft when installing it on your own device?
Jeroen

Great!!
Wow.. That is infact real cool. Just wondering whether there are any advantages of using your software over, maybe, Ultimate Theft Alert.. Except for the price.. Just curious.
Thanks a million for this.

It works 100%. I have tried changing sim card and I got the text of the new card's phone number on my 2 nominated numbers straight away. GPS Co-ordinates were both e-mailed and texted to my nominated number and e-mail address.
In order for e-mail to work you need to have an e-mail account configured on your phone already like hotmail or gmail.
Ultimate theft alert is paid. This is free since made by xda devs.

I use smartphonetracker, veryeasy to use and very reliable, works for a year now and just fine

powersquad said:
Install this. It's FREE. If a theif changes the sim card, you will automatically recieve an SMS to the numbers you have configured in the software. You will recieve his phone number + IMEI details. Configure your e-mail address and atleast 2 different phone numbers in the software so once you recieve the theifs new phone number or if he has not changed the sim card then you can send a special text message (read software tutorial) to you sim card or theifs new sim card which will activate the gps and text the co-ordinates to the nominated phone numbers you would have configured and an e-mail with link to google maps showing exactly where the phone is.
This thing works 100%. My house was under google maps with the right house and street address. I was stunned.
Also a thief is not literate enough to jump aboard XDA forum and search "How to hard reset a Touch Pro 2". They don't have time and most don't even know that technology like this exists.
Also once the Hard SPL comes out for TP2 and Cooked roms start releasing, you can either cook your own ROM with this software pre-installed with the right settings or request someone to cook a ROM for you with the right e-mail and phone number settings you want so even if a theif does a hard reset, software will still be installed again with those settings.
And to uninstall this software, theif needs to enter the password which you need to configure. I recommend you go through the tutorial.
oh and IMPORTANT. Install this to device memory because if he takes out your memory card and it's installed on the memory card then everything will be useless.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=394203
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I love that one, so thiefs are stupid... OK, nice one... Maybe one day you will became suprised...

Tracking software can work
I know it's about an iphone, but it proves that these services can work sometimes!
http://mashable.com/2009/07/28/find-my-iphone/
Gordon

hey... i agree with black phoenix completely... u never know these guys are too quick...
not unless the theif is some corporate theif, who wants ur data... i don't think he will leave ur phone without a hard-reset...
but for the first 10-20 minutes before he figures out how to do it.. i think a better solution than Ultimate Theft Alert is Maspware's Guardmobile
here is a small list of its features
* You can initiate an alarm and lock the device
* You can locate your device (GPS receiver is required)
* If your stolen device contains top secret data, you can do a hardreset remotely to erase all data!
* You can initiate a callback to overhear the thief
besides the above.. it also tells u if the sim card has changed... - which btw no foolish theif will do without first doing a hard-reset...
all the best...

mirage22 said:
hey... i agree with black phoenix completely... u never know these guys are too quick...
not unless the theif is some corporate theif, who wants ur data... i don't think he will leave ur phone without a hard-reset...
but for the first 10-20 minutes before he figures out how to do it.. i think a better solution than Ultimate Theft Alert is Maspware's Guardmobile
here is a small list of its features
* You can initiate an alarm and lock the device
* You can locate your device (GPS receiver is required)
* If your stolen device contains top secret data, you can do a hardreset remotely to erase all data!
* You can initiate a callback to overhear the thief
besides the above.. it also tells u if the sim card has changed... - which btw no foolish theif will do without first doing a hard-reset...
all the best...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Finnaly someone that supports me. I was thinking that I were the only one with the idea that most think that are strange. Looks like lot of people in this forum still believe in Santa's or in the Easter Bunny.
If it was a hardware solution, directly solded in the Phone PCB, OK, that way I may garantee that you can return your phone, because his hard to bypass (if done correctly), but even those ways are bypassable sooner or later.

powersquad said:
a thief is not literate enough to jump aboard XDA forum and search "How to hard reset a Touch Pro 2".http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=394203
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think they would do it to be honest, it would take ages to delete all of the contacts etc. A google for "reset touch pro 2" is all it takes.
However, once we have HardSPL we'll be able to burn these utilities into the ROM so that they survive a hard-reset. Thief has to be aware of this and know how to re-flash. That raises the bar considerably.

lol, some people are just giving waay too much credit to theifs here. if they were literate and could afford an internet conncection to jump on google, they will not be theifs in the first place. all they care about is booze and drugs...

powersquad said:
lol, some people are just giving waay too much credit to theifs here. if they were literate and could afford an internet conncection to jump on google, they will not be theifs in the first place. all they care about is booze and drugs...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you must have some really nice thieves in Europe. i've seen lots of things stolen for no other reason then to just steal something.

I recently had my phone (xperia) stolen. I had only recently flashed a new rom so it had wiped my anti-theft software. I bloody wish I had put it back on now.
Saying that I was abroad with no-data running, but at least I may have got a phone number by text. Then again the number to text to was my girlfreinds phone which was also taken. Oh well!
It is very likely a thief will reset the phone ASAP, but some thieves will be opportunists who see something shiny and expensive looking to steal and wont be that technologically savvy.
In that case the software may well pay off (ignoring my senerio above).

mirage22 said:
* You can locate your device (GPS receiver is required)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
We all know the issues (time lag etc.) with the GPS on the TP2. Why a thief would put a new simcard in the phone outside. Probably he/ or she will be inside, where no GPS signal is available.

What about "W.I.M.P" (where is my phone) ?
http://www.wimp-software.co.uk/

powersquad said:
lol, some people are just giving waay too much credit to theifs here. if they were literate and could afford an internet conncection to jump on google, they will not be theifs in the first place. all they care about is booze and drugs...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And some people thinks that just because they are thiefs that don't have internet connections and not literate. That they do not think, they aren't smart... Come On...

Acer Iconia bricked...Need help

Hello to all good guys in xda-developers forum.
This is my very first post and I really feel desperate and need your kind help.
New Acer iconia with stock firmware 3.2.1 was nicely running this morning until I tried to root the device.It was supposed to be very simple process and not to get into dirty complicated procedures but the gingerbreak.apk did not work as expected so I tried alternative methods.What I read in various forums was that the gingerbreak application is not able to root the new firmwares version so I tried to downgrade the firmware to 3.0.1.
Downloaded the Acer stock recovery firmware EUUs_SBK_Acer_A501_0.017.01_PA_ATT.exe and attempted to flash onto my tablet .I think I did all necessary pre-installation checks.The process started but it stopped on 10 percent for about 30 minutes without any progress.Only Acer logo was displayed and 'entering file downloading mode' at the top of the screen.
After long time no change I finally gave up and unplugged the device from the USB port and restarted but nothing works since then.
1. No vibration on Start
2. Black screen
3. No new USB device appear on my PC
4. No sign of any activity other then power button light
I guess the original firmware was wiped but the new firmware was not flashed...for whatever reason...perhaps the worst scenario.
I will really appreciate If anybody may give me advice how to fix it.

So it turns on but does not display anything? Have you tried to hold the power button and volume down button at the same to when you turn it on to try to get it into recovery. Also there is a little reset button on the side you can try to push.
Sent from my A500 using xda premium

tried all those thinks.All kind of tricks I could find on the net.The problem is that the device is not showing up in the device manager e.g not detected as USB device of an y kind....

acera500 said:
tried all those thinks.All kind of tricks I could find on the net.The problem is that the device is not showing up in the device manager e.g not detected as USB device of an y kind....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try this thread. Look about halfway down, and you'll see almost the exact thing you did, and how this guy got it going.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1291747
Basically you can run a search for APX in the main forum threads and find some other posts, but hopefully this will get you going.
I pulled this from the general forum (eventually), but you can also search the Q&A main forum page as well, and the dev forum.
Another link;
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1255519&highlight=apx&page=2

If its new just return it to the store for another one.
Sent from my A500 using xda premium

Acer or the store did not brick it
i THINK If you mess with the rom on your tablet and... BRICK your device .. you should tough it out and fix yourself... Acer or the store is not responsible for this .But then you could also argue that if they had not locked the bootloader this type of bricking would not happen..
So i say go above and beyond to try to fix it from the help on here.. if that fails.. THEN Maybe exchange it.. Its wrong to brake something then expect someone else to foot the bill. Yes im to honest for my own good at times... Acer has also been known to repair .
If you bought a extra warranty all of the above in my book is out the window.. Make them replace it ..
GIGGLES..
Good luck on getting it repaired ..and be more careful next time..

Piece of cake to fix if you kept you USB serial number (from the downgrade tool)???
===== If you have your USB serial number ====================
1. Lets assume you know your USB serial number. If not, then you might be able to get it from your registry.
2. Download my flashing tool at http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=20680452&postcount=137
a. Open up the readme.pdf for the instructions on how to flash
3. KEEP your acer unplugged and run the program
4. The program will install the APX flash drivers and will tell you to plug in the USB. Ignore this step. It will not work. In the instructions skip steps 3, 8, 9, 10.
5. Eventually the flashing tool will timeout because you do NOT have the tablet connected. It will then display a message box telling you how to use a paperclip and the power button to get you into APX mode. THIS IS THE secret to getting the tool to flash your ACER. However, once you get it into APX mode you will need your USB serial number (without it, you are fubar).
a. Plug in the tablet to your computer with the USB and paperclip yourself to fastboot.
6. Now in step 11, enter your USB serial number
7. Now just follow the rest of the instructions.
====== NO USB Serial number ==========
If you do not have your USB serial number than you are going to be out of luck, unless you have ever connected the device to your computer. If you did, then your registry will have a history containing your serial number.
Google usbdeview tool and download it. This will show the serial number of any USB device you've connected to your computer.
===== No Serial number, never connected it, what to do ==========
If you have no serial number and cannot get it, then hopefully you can get to recovery mode (power & volume) and flash using a signed update.zip from ACER. Download one of the update.zip's and put it on your external SDCard and then boot to recovery.
=== Bricked and No serial number, never connected, and you fubar'ed the recovery image ===
If you never connected your table to the USB and your computer to get the USB serial number then you are NOT going to be able to flash it to fix it.
If you fubar'ed the recovery image then you won't be able to get into recovery to run the ACER update zip.
At this point, you can still get your tablet into APX fastboot mode using a paperclip and the power button. But I know of NO way to flash it without the USB serial number and I know noway to get the USB serial number from the APX driver. I've tried and looked at getting the serial number from just APX mode, but I cannot determine how to get it. Someone out there might know.
Hope this helps,
TD

Your CPUID can also be found in the uid.txt file in your cwm backup folder - /mnt/external_sd/clockworkmod/backup/ - just remember to drop the 0x when you need to enter it

erica_renee said:
i THINK If you mess with the rom on your tablet and... BRICK your device .. you should tough it out and fix yourself... Acer or the store is not responsible for this .But then you could also argue that if they had not locked the bootloader this type of bricking would not happen..
So i say go above and beyond to try to fix it from the help on here.. if that fails.. THEN Maybe exchange it.. Its wrong to brake something then expect someone else to foot the bill. Yes im to honest for my own good at times... Acer has also been known to repair .
If you bought a extra warranty all of the above in my book is out the window.. Make them replace it ..
GIGGLES..
Good luck on getting it repaired ..and be more careful next time..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Honestly if more people returned bricked phones/tablets etc... they would quit locking them down... the you broke it you fix it because they want to keep people from doing things they should be able to do with THEIR system they bought... In other words I completely don't agree with this at all.. If everything was unlocked and such then I would support the you fix it, but then again we wouldn't be running into these issues now would we. But then again Most people need people to babysit them and tell them what they can and can't do with what they own..

wade7919 said:
Honestly if more people returned bricked phones/tablets etc... they would quit locking them down... the you broke it you fix it because they want to keep people from doing things they should be able to do with THEIR system they bought... In other words I completely don't agree with this at all.. If everything was unlocked and such then I would support the you fix it, but then again we wouldn't be running into these issues now would we. But then again Most people need people to babysit them and tell them what they can and can't do with what they own..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
@wade7919. You clearly have never worked in IT support on a hardware level.
Or maybe, I am barking up the wrong panty-leg?
If you bought a high dollar corvette, GM will support it. If you add an aftermarket chip, and your engine blows, do you expect GM to fix it? No. I wouldn't expect it either. Not their problem. Just because you can add a chip, doesn't mean you should do it.
That's why they try to lock bootloaders. To prevent users from doing things they shouldn't. Unlock them, and it opens a whole world of issues based on "open source". God help us if they unlock bootloaders.....
Not sure what you are getting at. I am under the belief, if you broke it, you fix it. Take responsibility for one's own actions. Shouldn't take the panzy pussyass way (no offence Erica and werecaltf), and return it for replacement. Suck it up, and learn from experience. Otherwise, the next device, you'll do the same stupid thing again.
I like things the way they are. Difficult, but not impossible. That separates the people with balls (again Erica and wercatlf, no offense), from the sheep.
But if you fubar the device, own up to it, and fix it. Don't pawn it off to somebody else (return it). And if you don't have the brain cells to have a backup plan before you start... Well, don't shed tears over it. Own up, throw the testosterone in the garbage disposal, and fix it.
Somebody give me a zanex...
And people, stop using Gingerbreak!!!!!!

Why locking a bootloader will cost ACER billions
Moscow and wade7919, you both make good arguments.
But it is what point of view you're coming form. If I bought a car and changed the RIM's on all 4 wheels and the engine blew up, would GM refuse to honor the warranty?
However, if I put jet fuel and alcohol in for gasoline and blew the engine why would they honor the warranty?
So, the question here is does rooting a device cause actual damage to the device thereby preventing rooting saves them warranty issues? Or is the device also considered to include the software and is covered under warranty?
I'm not taking sides here, but you both are making very good points but with different examples at different points of view.
So, lets look at other items and see if we can draw a parallel. If I buy a brand new Dell computer and send it in for Warranty and there is nothing wrong with the hardware they charge me (correct?). So if I fubar the OS or load something that caused the damage I pay for it or fix it. If there is actually a hardware failure then they cover it under warranty.
So, why does an Android MFG take the warranty one step further and include the OS and take steps to lock it so you cannot change it? Well, this is because nobody owns the OS (it's open source) therefore they take ownership of the build. Because there's no Microsoft to blame, they lock the software and consider it to be part of the overall device (Apple claimed this in their lawsuit). So, in the MFG's mind, there is no difference from the screen, keyboard, or the firmware & software.
So the question is what do you think should be covered under warranty? Most people think it should be just the hardware like a PC. Others see the whole device which includes the OS.
My point of view:
What follows is my rant and my opinion (you are warned )
In my opinion, I had NO problem until they decided to lock the bootloader. I have no problem with them claiming warranty from A-Z and if I change anything they won't warranty it. No problem, I understand that and accept full responsibility. But by ACER locking the bootloader they went too far.
To me this would be like GM welding the hood shut on my car. Better yet, it would be like me waking up one morning and opening my garage to get in my car and discover that during the night GM welded the hood shut. This, in my opinion, is illegal. Matter of fact, in my opinion, it violates US Federal hacking laws because they enter a system and destroyed data. I eventually think OEM's will get a class action suit filed on them for this.
Secondly, Windows 8 is going to be the game changer. OEM's can now make a hardware device and sit behind only warranting the hardware. You have a problem with the OS, call MS. Also, there is a HUGE (I mean HUGE). Did I mention HUGE, demand for tablets in business. Businesses will NOT put a device that has all these consumer games and social networking loaded into the workforce. There are billions in business applications that can be made, but you cannot sell them if they only run on a tablet that cannot have games removed etc.
Example might help: Medical field <- Think of all the applications a tablet can be used to save costs in hospitals. Do your really want your doctor or nurse etc using this tablet on facebook? Insurance company's, law firms, retailers, traveling sales, etc etc (Government). The list goes on.
Developers will see this huge opportunity and will write applications because they can sell them to A-Z and the business buying them will buy them because they can remove facebook and gmail from their company owned tablets. Now, as more and more developers move to Windows they'll drop Android. Want another example, read about Netflix and the issues they have had supporting a fragmented Android OS. So, business applications will move to Windows, but you might say so what, the consumer market is still there. True, but all you need is one killer application that everyone will want and for that to only be on Windows 8. Want some examples, here's my list, NFL (or sports), Netflix, Skype (gee owned by MS now isn't it?), or something new.
Bottom-line is this, if ACER and the others want to lock their bootloaders then they have just taken themselves out of the game for any business sales. Can you imagine walking into a boardroom showing the Government how your new VA application will save the VA Hospitals millions next year alone and improve veterans healthcare. Your application runs on any HC Android tablet. Everything is smoking, going great, as you hand your tablets, ACER a500', around the room. They are loving it. You just hit 'pay-dirt', then someone says hey I see these ACER's have gmail, facebook, blah blah. We cannot have government employees using tablets with those applications loaded, your installer removes them doesn't it? Silence enters the room, all eyes are focused on you. Your mind see millions escaping which were just within your grasp, you pause, you think, and you say YES General as you grab your Motorola Xoom and say 'that's why we recommend you buy nothing but Motorola.'. ACER just kissed millions in sales goodbye (oh and this is a true story).

i do believe acer should lock the bootloader on there devices.
However thee are things I would be doing with my tab if it were not locked.
Acer should give us the ability to flash the bootloader and not use the proprietary software. Lock that software to there bootloader.for there protections.
Give us a wway to unlock it..AT OUR OWN RISK..
So it should be locked but have a way to unlock it with the end user understanding they are totally on there own ..
I would be OK with voiding my warranty.

@Dean,
"So if I fubar the OS or load something that caused the damage I pay for it or fix it. If there is actually a hardware failure then they cover it under warranty."
Yes, that is true. Bootloaders are locked, to prevent completely stupid idiots, from doing things they absolutely no idea what the sam hell they are doing.
The issue is, should we be able to return a device, after we fubarred it? Against warranty? To say, Hey, your weakness allowed me to do it.
Just because the ability to do it exists, and we can quote a thousand instances, It doesn't mean we should, and to shirk responsibility. And pass it off to the main individual.
The fact is, the policies and regulations are there, and we should abide. And if we don't, we have to own up and deal with it.
And if we don't, then we are no better than the low life of the world. The scum.

Moscow Desire said:
@Dean,
"So if I fubar the OS or load something that caused the damage I pay for it or fix it. If there is actually a hardware failure then they cover it under warranty."
Yes, that is true. Bootloaders are locked, to prevent completely stupid idiots, from doing things they absolutely no idea what the sam hell they are doing.
The issue is, should we be able to return a device, after we fubarred it? Against warranty? To say, Hey, your weakness allowed me to do it.
Just because the ability to do it exists, and we can quote a thousand instances, It doesn't mean we should, and to shirk responsibility. And pass it off to the main individual.
The fact is, the policies and regulations are there, and we should abide. And if we don't, we have to own up and deal with it.
And if we don't, then we are no better than the low life of the world. The scum.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Very well put.I do know of a few people who have sent there device to acer after messing it up installing rom and telling acer.acer still fixed it free.
Honesty is always best

The evils of rooting
I'm still missing something here, why locking a bootloader does anything. Go get a Mortorola Xoom (not the FE) and you run the unlock OEM. It tells you that you are unlocking it. It tells you that you unlock it at your own risk. You cannot relock it until it is 100% back to stock. It asks you three times are you sure.
Locking the bootloader and treating everyone as an idiot is the problem. Just do what Motorola does, and stop being everybody's keeper. If they want to 'Police' this then you should have to call ACER and they fax you a form. You give DNA to prove who you are and fax it back. Then you go to a mandatory rooting class, that lasts for 5 days, where ACER preaches to you the sins of rooting. Then you have to take and pass a test. Then and only then, after passing the test you get a certificate. Then you call back, give them your certificate ID. Now they give you the secret key to unlock only your tablet.
That's the ticket,
TD
Bottom-line, it's not that they locked the boatloader, it's that you cannot unlock it. Like I said, go out to your driveway some morning and find that GM welded the hood to your car shut because they think you are stupid and shouldn't be opening the hood. Mind you that YESTERDAY, and at the time your bought it, it was not welded shut. That ladies and gentlemen is what ACER did with their OTA.

Moscow Desire said:
@wade7919. You clearly have never worked in IT support on a hardware level.
Or maybe, I am barking up the wrong panty-leg?
If you bought a high dollar corvette, GM will support it. If you add an aftermarket chip, and your engine blows, do you expect GM to fix it? No. I wouldn't expect it either. Not their problem. Just because you can add a chip, doesn't mean you should do it.
That's why they try to lock bootloaders. To prevent users from doing things they shouldn't. Unlock them, and it opens a whole world of issues based on "open source". God help us if they unlock bootloaders.....
Not sure what you are getting at. I am under the belief, if you broke it, you fix it. Take responsibility for one's own actions. Shouldn't take the panzy pussyass way (no offence Erica and werecaltf), and return it for replacement. Suck it up, and learn from experience. Otherwise, the next device, you'll do the same stupid thing again.
I like things the way they are. Difficult, but not impossible. That separates the people with balls (again Erica and wercatlf, no offense), from the sheep.
But if you fubar the device, own up to it, and fix it. Don't pawn it off to somebody else (return it). And if you don't have the brain cells to have a backup plan before you start... Well, don't shed tears over it. Own up, throw the testosterone in the garbage disposal, and fix it.
Somebody give me a zanex...
And people, stop using Gingerbreak!!!!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Okay comparing A Tablet or PHone to a car is stupid... Compare it to a Desktop Computer or Laptop... Companies do not lock them down so you can not use different OS's now do they.. They offer Backups to restore the system back to how it was with recovery partitions dont they? or they offer the choice to buy whatever OS you want to install correct? they don't limit you to say just Windows or *NIX do they? But we don't see laptops or desktops locked down to where you can't upgrade your system yourself or anything else... and any dumdass can do that without an issue most of the time. and there is more issues with viruses and crap on computers than phones or tablets...
So before you start making statements like compare this to that learn what to compare to first. If you mess something up on a hardware level sure pay for it.. if you mess something up on a software level because they decided to Babysit people its their fault. and if you think its the persons fault because they decided to open up a PRODUCT that they bought and own then you are one of the people that need babysitting and like everyone telling you what to do and how to do it. Go to an apple product then.
---------- Post added at 07:07 PM ---------- Previous post was at 06:51 PM ----------
Also if you really brick your device you can always give
http://paranoidandroid.us an email to findout about getting it fixed

wade7919 said:
Okay comparing A Tablet or PHone to a car is stupid... Compare it to a Desktop Computer or Laptop... Companies do not lock them down so you can not use different OS's now do they.. They offer Backups to restore the system back to how it was with recovery partitions dont they? or they offer the choice to buy whatever OS you want to install correct? they don't limit you to say just Windows or *NIX do they? But we don't see laptops or desktops locked down to where you can't upgrade your system yourself or anything else... and any dumdass can do that without an issue most of the time. and there is more issues with viruses and crap on computers than phones or tablets...
So before you start making statements like compare this to that learn what to compare to first. If you mess something up on a hardware level sure pay for it.. if you mess something up on a software level because they decided to Babysit people its their fault. and if you think its the persons fault because they decided to open up a PRODUCT that they bought and own then you are one of the people that need babysitting and like everyone telling you what to do and how to do it. Go to an apple product then.
---------- Post added at 07:07 PM ---------- Previous post was at 06:51 PM ----------
Also if you really brick your device you can always give
http://paranoidandroid.us an email to findout about getting it fixed
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I still like my car comparison
I make the car comparison to illustrate a point, because when I compare tablets to a PC everyone piles on *****ing about MS.
Bottom-line it doesn't matter if it's a blender or a PC. I own it, you own yours and I can do what I want with mine as you can with yours. Now, again I have a BIG(did i mention BIG issue with them changing it on me after I bought it.

To get back on topic, is the original poster still out there?? Has any of this helped? Are you still bricked?? Give us an update so we know if anything worked or you still need help.

The device was returned and accepted for replacement by the shop.Got new one and feel very nervous to start rooting procedure over.I was really lucky that they did not charge me anything but I really want to know what I did wrong so I don't brick my new device again.
I will provide further details soon about my computer OS and firewall settings and perhaps we may figure out what I did wrong.
To all good guys who send me them suggestions and solutions I wanna say big THANK YOU !!!
Your help is really priceless and thrilled me deeply. Will update topic soon

Happy New Yer to all Android fans!!!
So...Back on the subject.
My device was purchased in Japan and its current firmware version is
Acer_A500_7.009.03_AAP_CUS6JP
Q1. Can I flash US or World Wide firmware version on that device.
Q2. Does anybody know the Acer's ftp download server address for Japan
Q3. I think its a good idea to dump my original stock firmware but it seems there is no way doing that prior rooting.So..kinda stuck .any suggestions appreciated.
P.S. I'm thinking about flashing the latest Rooted rom 3.2.1 V3 by timmiDean (thanks for your hard work) I read the instructions very carefully and I think that everything will go smoothly but just in case (considering the specific Japanese firmware version)
would appreciate any further directions by the author.
Thanks

This is going to sound like complete tinfoil hat stuff but it's not

I've got an Android G5 running 7.0 software, it's a LGUS992 and the carrier is under US Celluar.
I know this is going to sound like someone who's hearing things, hallucinating, etc but without a doubt. 100 %. someone in my community has access to my phone [and my Chromebook, actually] I'm not very computer savvy but I know there are means through which you /might/ be able to do this kind of thing- malware or spyware, keylogging, some kind of physical device, etc
I've heard people mention things as specific as individual songs I'm listening to, passwords I've used, things I've typed, etc. Like literally everything and anything I'll do on my phone, I know people have access to and I absolutely need to know how this is being done and how I could stop it, I've been a phone addict for years, use mine for both professional and personal purposes, and since I live out of state from most of my family and friends it's literally the /only/ way I can talk to 99 % of the people I know. My life is already in the dumps so to lose my main access to a ton of the things in my life is soul crushing and whoever does this doesn't care a bit
It's not just something that could be from my Gmail account being linked- I've heard mention of texts, etc. Phone only offline stuff. Does this sound like something that could be done and if so, evaded?
I've changed my phone password, Gmail password, Skype password, Youtube password, put on a PIN, put on a fingerprint access for my phone and this has still continued

What is the EXACT problem? As in, how did you find out and what EXACTLY happened in full detail. I any be able to help.

Betroot1A said:
I've got an Android G5 running 7.0 software, it's a LGUS992 and the carrier is under US Celluar.
...
I've heard people mention things as specific as individual songs I'm listening to, passwords I've used, things I've typed, etc. Like literally everything and anything I'll do on my phone, I know people have access to and I absolutely need to know how this is being done and how I could stop it...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had some folks do this to me many many years ago on my pc when I was a teen. That kind of blunt invasion of privacy - and showing it off - is scary stuff to say the least.
If you were on a samsung device (which this subforum is targeted to by the way) I could tell you what to do right out the gate. I would tell you to reset the whole thing - meaning all partitions on it - to stock configuration via a special tool.
I have no idea if something like this exists on LG devices such as yours. So I would suggest you repost your question here in the LG G5 subforum. I'm sure there is a way to get rid of that malware and that someone there will be knowledable and kind enough to tell you how!
Keep your head up & good luck!

Hawaiihemd said:
I had some folks do this to me many many years ago on my pc when I was a teen. That kind of blunt invasion of privacy - and showing it off - is scary stuff to say the least.
If you were on a samsung device (which this subforum is targeted to by the way) I could tell you what to do right out the gate. I would tell you to reset the whole thing - meaning all partitions on it - to stock configuration via a special tool.
I have no idea if something like this exists on LG devices such as yours. So I would suggest you repost your question here in the LG G5 subforum. I'm sure there is a way to get rid of that malware and that someone there will be knowledable and kind enough to tell you how!
Keep your head up & good luck!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah man, it's pretty hellish. Good looks on the referral, I'll see if anyone has a solution over there
And in reply to the first poster, I think I made the problem pretty clear, literally everything I do on my cell phone anywhere in town I'll hear about later on which for some odd reason I'm not okay with