Database Users

Security Issues...?

Just read this piece of information...
http://www.thisandroidlife.com/2010...om-infected-iphones-and-android-handsets.html
I've always thought about this ever since a buddy of mine coded a little bot to do about the same thing to an online game.
Anyway,the real question I guess is, What can be done to prevent these types of thing from happening? What do you think?

Doesnt Android tell you everything a program is going to access before it's installed? I ALWAYS read that.

The only thing that this article is trying to point out is that non tech savvy users, which are probably a lot of Smartphone users won't really understand or care to know the "details" of the apps and what its all going to do, as such; they're more prone to installing these malicious apps. On top of that, they were showcasing that right now, they've only taken the GPS coordinates from the phone, but if they wanted to - passwords, messages, etc could be taken from the phone without anyone ever knowing.
I think this is good, it makes people more aware and allows us to be more cautious. Not mention, it's becoming obvious that Mobile data/traffic is easy to target and probably even easier to trick users (than on computers) because of lack of security and the notion that ones' phone cannot be "hacked" or what not.

hm
i had to go threw SlideMe.org to get a app because my bank blocked Android Market lol anyway. They sent out a server wide warning that app was bad last night.

BTW is there an app which logs where and what your phone sends? Like "littlesnitch"?
http://tinyurl.com/o9568k

There's not much that can be done about this, and it's a perfectly legitimate threat.
Yes, the app DOES tell you what it will be doing, but nearly any app that has Network access and Fine Location, especially if it does grab your GPS coordinates for something in the app itself, could send stuff behind the scenes and you'd be completely unaware.
I definitely don't think this will be the last time we'll hear about this sort of malicious app.

Negrito said:
Doesnt Android tell you everything a program is going to access before it's installed? I ALWAYS read that.
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Of course but you don't know EXACTLY what the app is doing with the info(unless you tear it apart).Like in the example a weather widget,of course its going to use gps.So what if another app that can access your phones info that would typically need to, but is broadcasting that info to a remote server.If you get what I'm, trying to get at.
Edit: What kmart said...lol

The only truly saving grace of these phones about the sensitivity of location awareness with respect to paranoia of the same, is that we can pull the battery and remove any doubt that the phone cannot disclose its function or location.
There was an article I read a while ago that the Fed's had issued over 3 million location requests last year to Sprint on users - warrant-less! How's that for Paranoia!!!
But all these apps in the market has the Buyer Beware tag so, of course at some point or another it will be exploited! For the most part, the idea of location awareness and marketing/advertisement and or service oriented provisioning is a great concept. The openness of the Android system to provide the same - will undoubtedly have it's shortfalls. A Good Firewall app that notifies and asks for approval prior to transmitting info or accepting connections from an app would go a long way to controlling potential problems. Just like a PC, which basically these phones have become.

well, considering I don't go on any financial sites from my phone, there's not much they can get off it...do they want my school email password? Have at it...they can read those worthless emails if they want (heck, even send a nice threatening email to my profressors for all I care lol).
Not to mention that my phone gets wiped a few times a week, just like so many other people here, there's not much they can get unless they can manage to hack into my google account and steal my credit card info...in which case, they won't be able to spend much on that account, since there's nothing in it lol.
This is as bad as "big brother" listening to my phone calls. What do I care? lol. If someone wants to know where I am, then by all means, let them know where I am. I'm not doing anything of interest to them.
On a side note, we apparently have caught the attention of the mods in this sub-forum, and have become a "family forum" according to a different thread lol.

tatonka_hero said:
On a side note, we apparently have caught the attention of the mods in this sub-forum, and have become a "family forum" according to a different thread lol.
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Hey Tatonka! Lol, wassup? hahaha, but if you could, please elaborate? I know it's off topic, but I'm happy to be apart of the Android Family hehe...
And oh... is there any PGP type Android app that anyone might be familiar with? Lol, just thinking about it with this topic, lol...

I was thinking about that 'Firewall App' idea.Maybe that could be done,it would definitely be something worth looking into.
In response to totonka's post,i hear you.I'm the same way,BUT there are plenty of people who do have sensitive info/files/pictures(you know what I'm talking about) that surely wouldn't want ANYone to have access to.That's just how it is.I'm just thinking of the tons of people who don't even know that this is even possible.

casperlt1 said:
I was thinking about that 'Firewall App' idea.Maybe that could be done,it would definitely be something worth looking into.
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My thoughts also, but I don't know if it is a true Firewall or just handles calls...

A security issue is still a security issue even if it doesn't affect you, and an invasion of privacy is still an invasion of privacy even if you don't care about it. Not trying to start any sort of flame here, please don't take it that way. Just mean to say that if you wait to take a stance on a known problem until it becomes YOUR problem, haven't you maybe waited too long?

US Government Makes It “Legal” To Unlock Any Phone

http://business-news.thestreet.com/...a/667729680-new-gov-t-rules-allow-unapproved/
http://www.loc.gov/today/pr/2010/10-169.html

That's not going to change anything...There might be more companies that unlock phones, but providers can still lock their devices, and they still have the right to void the warranty after a device has been unlocked...
I guess a good step though.

Also prohibited is technically impede access to the user in the software core of the
chris_knows said:
That's not going to change anything...There might be more companies that unlock phones, but providers can still lock their devices, and they still have the right to void the warranty after a device has been unlocked...
I guess a good step though.
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Also prohibited is technically impede access to the user in the software core of the device, and block the changes.

www.gizmodo.com/5596671/why-legal-iphone-unlocking-and-jailbreaking-doesnt-matter-that-much

Now they don't fear it.
chris_knows said:
www.gizmodo.com/5596671/why-legal-iphone-unlocking-and-jailbreaking-doesnt-matter-that-much
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Although I understand the gist of this article. I still have to say that making it legal opens a lot more doors.
I know a few "programmers" that don't touch "illegal" things like jailbreaking cause of fear. Now they don't fear it.
I'm sure many others will feel relieved and will start working on this to make it better, simpler, and maybe discover new methods.

irkkso said:
Although I understand the gist of this article. I still have to say that making it legal opens a lot more doors.
I know a few "programmers" that don't touch "illegal" things like jailbreaking cause of fear. Now they don't fear it.
I'm sure many others will feel relieved and will start working on this to make it better, simpler, and maybe discover new methods.
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I totally agree with that...
Cell phone companies will always find another way to screw you, though haha.

Email to MOTO

Okay guys so we know all attempts at hacking the bootloader to circumvent the efuse hasn't worked. I feel that the only way to crack this thing open is with the keys from MOTO. Its a slim chance it will actually work but if enough people complain and flood their inboxes somethings bound to happen. maybe. hopefully. Well I sent in an email to tech support and got a cookie cutter response that you can see below. I then was playing around with possible email addresses for the Co-CEO Greg brown I finally landed on his email with the help of someone else and his email is [email protected] I sent him an email to which he forwarded to a PR person I'm guessing and got a cookie cutter response. This pisses me off. Let's do something about it. Everyone send your emails to to that guy requesting the keys. Make the subjects not all locked bootloader or he won't even look at them I'm guessing. This is ridiculous and we need to take a stand. If you don't like the idea then that's fine but to everyone else send an email.
Sent: Wednesday, November 17, 2010 2:30 PM
To: Brown Greg Pres CEO-CGB025
Subject: locked bootloader
Greg,
Please provide me with the keys to my phone. I purchased this phone and I should be able to do what I want with it. How would you like it if you purchased a car and the dealership put a lock on the hood not allowing you to access the engine. You would then have to go to that dealership each time you wanted anything done even though you are a mechanic yourself. This is exactly what is happening here. I'm tired of you guys locking down devices that a consumer has purchased. If I should so choose to do stuff that would violate warranties then that's all on me. You can reply with the keys.
Thanks.
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Their reply
Thank you for contacting Motorola. Your e-mail below was forwarded to me to address for Mr. Brown.
Motorola's primary focus is the security of our end users and protection of their data, while also meeting carrier, partner and legal requirements. The Droid X and a majority of Android consumer devices on the market today have a secured bootloader. In reference specifically to eFuse, the technology is not loaded with the purpose of preventing a consumer device from functioning, but rather ensuring for the user that the device only runs on updated and tested versions of software. If a device attempts to boot with unapproved software, it will go into recovery mode, and can re-boot once approved software is re-installed. Checking for a valid software configuration is a common practice within the industry to protect the user against potential malicious software threats. Motorola has been a long time advocate of open platforms and provides a number of resources to developers to foster the ecosystem including tools and access to devices via MOTODEV at http://developer.motorola.com.
Thank you,
Anne Arroyo
Motorola Consumer Advocacy Office
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COME ON GUYS.

What's the email address? It's worth a shot.
Sent from my DROIDX

bkjolly said:
What's the email address? It's worth a shot.
Sent from my DROIDX
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It's in the OP.

Email sent I will post it when I get the response.
Sent from my DROIDX

motorola don't care
You will get the same response... they feel they are protecting the end user which is us.... but also those who don't care to mod their droid x. They are operating under the excuse that someone may take the information and create a virus that would be able to take customer information... atleast that is the bull they are feeding the public. Not using the common since in their heads say... "we left the drod 1 unlocked and nothing significately bad happened." and they also like to say it will void the warranty.. bla bla bla... so no matter what you do all you will get is bullsh*t bullsh*t BULLSH*T.... until someone comes up with a valid excuse and manages to get through to an actual person... cause I would be willing to bet that... that is an automated response based on subject slash specific words in the body. no one with any power reads them and if they see anything envolving bootloader it is replied to in that fashion no matter what.

better off
You would be better off complaining if they don't want to unlock the bootloader, then they need to come up with a better more inventive and visualy apealing UI, cause BLUR is crap.

Motorola is starting to piss me off

Ubermicro13 said:
Motorola is starting to piss me off
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Same. They say they support the open policy but that's BS. I love the phone but will probably not buy another one. That being said I knew what I was getting into prior to buying the phone with the locked bootloader/eFuse. However, this being my first android phone I didn't realize how addicting customizing could be. ie. roms/kernals. well, I can imagine how addicting it would be.

emailed
just emailed greg..

Guy, think about this for a second.
What CAN'T we do to this phone that we're already doing, besides maybe an optimized kernel? WITH efuse in place, the devs have managed to implement overclocking, voltage mods, easy rooting, system ROMing, etc. Its my understanding that with the D1, OCing and voltage mods were done by customizing the kernel. Well, here we are with the DX and doing it easily with the bootloader still locked down.
Now, I'd like to see that bootloader unlocked for the sake of doing it, but still...um, we've already gotten around much of what we were prevented from doing in the first place and all under efuse's nose.

Aggie12 said:
Same. They say they support the open policy but that's BS. I love the phone but will probably not buy another one. That being said I knew what I was getting into prior to buying the phone with the locked bootloader/eFuse. However, this being my first android phone I didn't realize how addicting customizing could be. ie. roms/kernals. well, I can imagine how addicting it would be.
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Haha I'm on the same boat as you, It is indeed addicting.

The whole point of motorola locking down the bootloader was to prevent people from gaining the type of access we want. I know that the BL situation is annoying, but I was also aware of it when I bought the device. Personally, root and tethering are all that I want; otherwise, I would have bought a DI or Fascinate.
Not trying to hate, but i have seen multiple failed "outraged email drives" directed at motorola over the months
Sent from my DROIDX using XDA App

davisbs999 said:
The whole point of motorola locking down the bootloader was to prevent people from gaining the type of access we want. I know that the BL situation is annoying, but I was also aware of it when I bought the device. Personally, root and tethering are all that I want; otherwise, I would have bought a DI or Fascinate.
Not trying to hate, but i have seen multiple failed "outraged email drives" directed at motorola over the months
Sent from my DROIDX using XDA App
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That's fine. I'm not looking for the approval of your nor anyone else. It was merely a chance for me to vent my frustration towards the man. And I know we have come far but it's more of the principle that they still have so much say with the device even though we own it.

Why don't just send them your custom ROMs so they can approve they are within their "QA"? huh?

Dany0 said:
Why don't just send them your custom ROMs so they can approve they are within their "QA"? huh?
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I agree with that. Elect a team to build the ULTIMATE ROM and send to Moto. Show them what the devs can accomplish along with our user support.
We have to provide resistance and keep the pressure on them to stop this kind of lockdown for the future of modding/hacking devices.

Why ultimate, first we have to see what kind of roms they accept and which not. Then everyone will send it's own ROM.
And then we will sue them.
And then chuck norris... oh nothing

jasonm4046 said:
You will get the same response... they feel they are protecting the end user which is us.... but also those who don't care to mod their droid x. They are operating under the excuse that someone may take the information and create a virus that would be able to take customer information... atleast that is the bull they are feeding the public. Not using the common since in their heads say... "we left the drod 1 unlocked and nothing significately bad happened." and they also like to say it will void the warranty.. bla bla bla... so no matter what you do all you will get is bullsh*t bullsh*t BULLSH*T.... until someone comes up with a valid excuse and manages to get through to an actual person... cause I would be willing to bet that... that is an automated response based on subject slash specific words in the body. no one with any power reads them and if they see anything envolving bootloader it is replied to in that fashion no matter what.
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I actually put it in my email not to give me that bull because everyone with half a brain knew it was a lie and that everyone that read it was laughing at Moto for thinking people were that stupid.
Sent from my DROIDX

SirBrass said:
Guy, think about this for a second.
What CAN'T we do to this phone that we're already doing, besides maybe an optimized kernel? WITH efuse in place, the devs have managed to implement overclocking, voltage mods, easy rooting, system ROMing, etc. Its my understanding that with the D1, OCing and voltage mods were done by customizing the kernel. Well, here we are with the DX and doing it easily with the bootloader still locked down.
Now, I'd like to see that bootloader unlocked for the sake of doing it, but still...um, we've already gotten around much of what we were prevented from doing in the first place and all under efuse's nose.
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The reason this is important is Moto's security gets tighter with every update. If we let them get away with it without at least trying to do something about it then they will continue to make security tighter and harder to work around. When other Manufacturers see that Moto got away with it they'll follow and eventually all phones will be locked down to the point that everyone is running the same Vanilla OS. The bootloader have a work around now but if we don't speak up it may not one day. They had no legitimate reason to lock the bootloader down it was just a show of force. Efuse is step one. So if you don't want Android ruined by the Manufacturers and Carriers speak up now. The Droid X is okay with a locked bootloader but they still put a leash on it and they're going to keep tightening it as long as we let them. Others will follow just watch HTC has already stared.
Sent from my DROIDX

Anyone want to start a web page for an online petition for Manufacturers not to lock down their phones? I would do it but I don't have the know how. But if we email this guy and start a web petition we have more of a voice. Call in to RadioAndroid and let the public know it's out there. This isn't just Moto we're fighting. We can stop other Manufacturs before they start or at least try.
Sent from my DROIDX

bkjolly said:
Anyone want to start a web page for an online petition for Manufacturers not to lock down their phones? I would do it but I don't have the know how. But if we email this guy and start a web petition we have more of a voice. Call in to RadioAndroid and let the public know it's out there. This isn't just Moto we're fighting. We can stop other Manufacturs before they start or at least try.
Sent from my DROIDX
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There have already been two online petitions done.

"Mobile Device Privacy Act" would prevent secret smartphone monitoring

Ars said:
Recent controversy sparked by the installation of monitoring software [k0: CIQ] on millions of smartphones has led US Rep. Edward Markey (D-MA) to propose a requirement that carriers and phone makers inform consumers about the presence of monitoring software and gain their "express consent" before collecting and transmitting information from phones.
The controversy started a couple months back [k0: almost a year ago] when a developer [k0: hi TrevE] publicized the widespread use of Carrier IQ software, which phone manufacturers and carriers use to monitor what happens on a smartphone. While Apple, Samsung, HTC, AT&T and others all said the software is used only as a diagnostics tool to improve network and service performance, congressmen started denouncing the use of Carrier IQ, and class-action lawsuits were filed.
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http://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/...ould-prevent-secret-smartphone-monitoring.ars
Discuss.

To me the whole CIQ debacle smelled of FUD and never really concerned me. It seemed obvious to that my carrier already has access to any data I transmit across their network, with or without any additional software installed on my device. Sure CIQ enabled the carrier to potentially (key word) access more sensitive data that I was not necessarily transmitting across their network. However I'm more concerned that I'll lose my phone and some random stranger will get access to all the naked pics of me on it... Not really because I don't store sensitive data like that on an insecure device like my phone. This feels a lot like the "Warning: Hot coffee is hot!" labels.

machx0r said:
This feels a lot like the "Warning: Hot coffee is hot!" labels.
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Not commenting on the rest, the whole "hot coffee" lawsuit has an untold story that most people have never seen. I suggest you - and everyone reading - watch the documentary (from HBO, find it whereever you stream/download things from) Hot Coffee. I can guarantee it'll change you view on that case and the idea of "frivolous lawsuits" forever.

machx0r said:
However I'm more concerned that I'll lose my phone and some random stranger will get access to all the naked pics of me on it... .
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That's awesome. Lol. I've said the same thing. They can monitor any message or call sent across the network anyways. I never understood what the big deal with a software, that was set to be inactive anyways, was. Malintent is the only thing to be scared of, and this never reeked of anything malicious, IMHO.
Sent from my SPH-D700 using Tapatalk

azyouthinkeyeiz said:
that was set to be inactive anyways
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http://phandroid.com/2011/12/16/carrier-iq-by-the-numbers-26-million-sprint-handsets-900000-for-att/
Inactive... except for those 26 million.
And 1.3 million at any one time actively reporting.

k0nane said:
Not commenting on the rest, the whole "hot coffee" lawsuit has an untold story that most people have never seen. I suggest you - and everyone reading - watch the documentary (from HBO, find it whereever you stream/download things from) Hot Coffee. I can guarantee it'll change you view on that case and the idea of "frivolous lawsuits" forever.
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I respect you immensely k0, but frivolous lawsuits should not be in quotations nor a matter to take lightly. Of course there is a reality of using certain cases to further the tort reform movement, but this is just as shameless as any publicity stunt or "shock" image.
To dismiss all claims of frivolity because of mainstream examples, however, is naive. Such cases have almost single handedly driven the cost up and quality down of healthcare to where it stands today. And this is but one arena affected by the greed of humans. Hot coffee aside, it is a reality that should not be dismissed.
Neither here nor there, though. Way off topic. I support this bill.
Sent from my SPH-D710 using xda premium

squshy 7 said:
To dismiss all claims of frivolity because of mainstream examples, however, is naive. Such cases have almost single handedly driven the cost up and quality down of healthcare to where it stands today. And this is but one arena affected by the greed of humans. Hot coffee aside, it is a reality that should not be dismissed.
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I generally agree. Yes, it's off-topic, but I'll clarify a little bit before letting it go - I think that claims of frivolity are often overblown. It is an absolute fact that there are greedy ambulance-chasing lawyers, rent-seeking plantiffs, and idiots who would award them large sums of money for nothing. I agree that this often contributes to the rising costs of health care. My point was that not all of what's deemed 'frivolous' by the mainstream media and the anti-consumer lobby actually is frivolous, and that some of the more-known cases like the hot coffee suit are vastly misreported and misunderstood. That's why I recommend(ed) further research - do your own homework, and watch the doc. Then do more homework. I didn't expect to come out with a different perspective... but I did.

I could be wrong, but I think that this is a non-issue.
Why?? Well I am glad you asked.
You know that two year contract we committed to when we purchased the phone? I am 99.999999999% sure that in there it says that they may monitor our usage for QC already in there. So if this passed, the providers would just say it is part of the contract that no one ever reads, but you accepted when you got the phone (which I believe it already is to date).
Unfortunately I don't ever foresee them making this an option that can be shut off. Basically it will say we do it, and if you don't like it go to another provider. Problem is all of the other providers will say the same exact thing.
Just my .02

Milkman00 said:
I am 99.999999999% sure that in there it says that they may monitor our usage for QC already in there.
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Absolutely nothing related to CIQ is mentioned anywhere in the Sprint terms of service nor any device-specific terms of service.
I checked. Thoroughly.

Tinfoil hats, anyone? Ill pass them out for free!
Sent from my SPH-D700 using XDA App

austin420 said:
Tinfoil hats, anyone? Ill pass them out for free!
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I want three!

austin420 said:
Tinfoil hats, anyone? Ill pass them out for free!
Sent from my SPH-D700 using XDA App
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This is the rights activist thread, I think you misclicked. You must have thought this was the paranoia thread, common misconception.
Sent from my SPH-D700 using xda premium

I see we've got some intelligent, I-can-think-for-myself types in here. Let's agree to just figuratively hide in here and discuss XDA-related matters: I've about had it with wading through all the bull**** in the other threads!
On topic: while I did get the impression that CIQ-gate got wildly blown out of proportion, I also like the general idea of this piece of legislation. Thanks for the link, k0nane.

k0nane said:
Absolutely nothing related to CIQ is mentioned anywhere in the Sprint terms of service nor any device-specific terms of service.
I checked. Thoroughly.
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Nothing related to CIQ specifically??? That I wouldn't doubt. Are you saying though that there is nothing in the contract that says (something to the effect) that they may use tools to check tower strength and QC??
If it isn't in there, to comply with this new law they will just add it in there (as will all the carriers), and we will probably be right back to square one anyway.

Milkman00 said:
Nothing related to CIQ specifically??? That I wouldn't doubt. Are you saying though that there is nothing in the contract that says (something to the effect) that they may use tools to check tower strength and QC?
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Nothing related to CIQ's functions (claimed and real). Nothing even remotely close.

k0nane said:
Nothing related to CIQ's functions (claimed and real). Nothing even remotely close.
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you must notve read the privacy policy mentioned several times in the terms and conditions...
http://www.sprint.com/legal/privacy.html
We collect personal information about you in various ways. We may also get information from other sources and may combine it with information we collect about you.
Information that we automatically collect.
We automatically receive certain types of information whenever you use our Services. We may collect information about your device, your computer, and online activities. For example, we collect your device's and computer's IP address, the date and time of your access and the type of browser you use. We also collect information about your device's and computer's operating system, your location, and the Web site from which you came and then went and Web sites you visit on your device. We may link information we automatically collect with personal information, such as information you give us at registration or check out.
Information we collect when we provide you with Services includes when your wireless device is turned on, how your device is functioning, device signal strength, where it is located, what device you are using, what you have purchased with your device, how you are using it, and what sites you visit
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this goes on for pages.

austin420 said:
this goes on for pages.
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I did read it.
"We will aggressively log and transmit dialer keys pressed and detailed records of apps installed and used" (see here) is never mentioned. "What you have purchased with your device" does not cover that in any way, and "how you use your device" is so vague that any competent lawyer could knock it down instantly. Everything specifically listed can be collected by existing network services without CIQ.
This debate has been hashed out many, many times already. I created this thread just to link to current news.

i dont know about aggresivly, (your word i guess?) but why does it hurt for them to log keystrokes (in the dialer only) when they already have access to that info?
ciq is just a network metrics tool. it helps them improve the network (witch until lately was badly in need of improvments).

austin420 said:
i dont know about aggresivly, (your word i guess?) but why does it hurt for them to log keystrokes (in the dialer only) when they already have access to that info?
ciq is just a network metrics tool. if it helps them improve the network (witch until lately was badly in need of improvments).
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They don't have access to keystrokes pressed. They have access to calls made - big difference. Dialer codes are used for more than just phone numbers, as you know.
CIQ had its legitimate uses. It was designed as a network metrics tool, and it may have helped improve the network. I don't debate that. Its functions, though, go beyond - tracking the apps I install and use is NOT legitimate. It implementation and use was done very poorly. If all had been done differently from the beginning, I would have had less of a problem with it. But it wasn't. And hey, look, now it's gone.

k0nane said:
They don't have access to keystrokes pressed. They have access to calls made - big difference. Dialer codes are used for more than just phone numbers, as you know.
CIQ had its legitimate uses. It was designed as a network metrics tool, and it may have helped improve the network. I don't debate that. Its functions, though, go beyond - tracking the apps I install and use is NOT legitimate. It implementation and use was done very poorly. If all had been done differently from the beginning, I would have had less of a problem with it. But it wasn't. And hey, look, now it's gone.
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all good points, i still think it all fell well within the t&cs and privacy policy, but hey, now its gone! thanks ko!

re: APK Parse error 'solution'

re: APK Parse error 'solution'
I've seen at least two 'solutions' to the APK parsing error on the Moto G by using ES File explorer and setting the Root Explorer to 'ON'. Unfortunately you can't set it to ON! LOL
All you get is a message saying "Sorry, test. failed.This feature cannot run on your device".
Presumably those suggesting this have root access already? Similary with moving .apks to elsewhere in the system and running it from there. Doesn't work either, because you can't copy files there due to RW permissions!
Hopefully, we will get an OTA update soon to cure the problem once and for all, like some have in I think it was France or Germany?

You can put those files in Google Drive and you can install from there with no problem
ALSO
A reset of your phone will resolve your problem OR you can flash the latest firmware available on Europe 14.91.11 ( http://sbf.droid-developers.org/phone.php?device=14 ) or you can wait for the small OTA update that will bump your phone to the same version.
^ this steps will remove all the data from your device, but you can acomplish all of this without rooting or unlocking your bootloader (warranty won't be voided)

Also the kitkat is out now....
Sent from my GT-B5330 using xda app-developers app

MrWhatever said:
I've seen at least two 'solutions' to the APK parsing error on the Moto G by using ES File explorer and setting the Root Explorer to 'ON'. Unfortunately you can't set it to ON! LOL
All you get is a message saying "Sorry, test. failed.This feature cannot run on your device".
Presumably those suggesting this have root access already? Similary with moving .apks to elsewhere in the system and running it from there. Doesn't work either, because you can't copy files there due to RW permissions!
Hopefully, we will get an OTA update soon to cure the problem once and for all, like some have in I think it was France or Germany?
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What LOL???
why the 'solutions' in quotes?? you think they don't work for root users??
The solutions regarding the use of a Root Explorer, which you can use ES to be, and which can be performed by any other number of Root Browsers or Explorers, all presuppose that those attempting these solutions have got root privileges....
I mean, the clue is in the title....Root....
how can you hope to carry out system wide operations in a Linux system without root privileges??
BTW, there is another step in ES to be carried out, other than toggling Root ON....you need to make system partitions R/W....they are RO by default in latest ES....
investigate that yourself, it's easy.
LOL indeed!!!

irishpancake said:
What LOL??? at your own stupidity??
why the 'solutions' in quotes?? you think they don't work for root users??
The solutions regarding the use of a Root Explorer, which you can use ES to be, and which can be performed by any other number of Root Browsers or Explorers, all presuppose that those attempting these solutions have got root privileges....
I mean, the clue is in the title....Root....
how can you hope to carry out system wide operations in a Linux system without root privileges??
BTW, there is another step in ES to be carried out, other than toggling Root ON....you need to make system partitions R/W....they are RO by default in latest ES....
investigate that yourself, it's easy.
LOL indeed!!!
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Click to collapse
Yes, the presupposition of this particular solution is indeed that you have root privileges. Correct my 'stupidity', but obtaining root privileges requires an unlocked bootloader? However, a lot of people here don't want to risk voiding their warranties by doing so. I also have the battery problem, where it suddenly dropped to 0% and it might be going back to Tesco. So, to them, and me, it's not a 'solution'.
Yes, uploading to Google Drive works fine here. Factory reset doesn't work here (opting out of Moto Care) though.Why does a factory reset work for some people anyway?

You can also try installing apks from external USB stick.

MrWhatever said:
Yes, the presupposition of this particular solution is indeed that you have root privileges. Correct my 'stupidity', but obtaining root privileges requires an unlocked bootloader? However, a lot of people here don't want to risk voiding their warranties by doing so. I also have the battery problem, where it suddenly dropped to 0% and it might be going back to Tesco. So, to them, and me, it's not a 'solution'.
Yes, uploading to Google Drive works fine here. Factory reset doesn't work here (opting out of Moto Care) though.Why does a factory reset work for some people anyway?
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I'm sorry friend, I should have not called you stupid, it does nobody any good to hurl abuse....
However, just look at what you posted, as in your first line:
I've seen at least two 'solutions' to the APK parsing error on the Moto G by using ES File explorer and setting the Root Explorer to 'ON'. Unfortunately you can't set it to ON! LOL
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Perhaps you should also reflect on the use of LOL, when the laugh is on you, really, you have even said the word root in that opening sentence!!!
If you are going to use a root explorer, it does indeed presuppose you have root.....does it not??
So, the solutions are perfectly valid, and should not be subjected to LOL and 'quotes', do you agree?? It was your misunderstanding.
BTW, unlocking your bootloader and rooting do not invalidate your statutory rights, which you have in the UK, and in my country, unless the retailer can show that by unlocking the BL, or rooting you have caused actual damage.
These rights are guaranteed by your Trading Standards, for up to six years, and are also guaranteed by EU directives, which give an EU consumer a statutory two year warranty, in addition to any manufacturers warranty.
The Motorola voided warranty notice is for their US customers, where consumer protection is not as strong as in the EU or indeed the UK.
If you are returning a phone for example, which has a hardware fault, such as a damaged USB port, or buttons which fail to do what they are supposed to do, you have consumer rights based on the fact that your device must be of merchantable quality and fit for the purpose you bought it for.
These HW faults can in no way be attributed to an unlocked BL, or root. If a retailer or manufacturer claim they are, the onus is on them to prove how the unlocked BL or root caused the manufacturing or HW defect.
I have posted before on this, with links, if you wish further info.

irishpancake said:
.
BTW, unlocking your bootloader and rooting do not invalidate your statutory rights, which you have in the UK, and in my country, unless the retailer can show that by unlocking the BL, or rooting you have caused actual damage.
These rights are guaranteed by your Trading Standards, for up to six years, and are also guaranteed by EU directives, which give an EU consumer a statutory two year warranty, in addition to any manufacturers warranty.
The Motorola voided warranty notice is for their US customers, where consumer protection is not as strong as in the EU or indeed the UK.
If you are returning a phone for example, which has a hardware fault, such as a damaged USB port, or buttons which fail to do what they are supposed to do, you have consumer rights based on the fact that your device must be of merchantable quality and fit for the purpose you bought it for.
These HW faults can in no way be attributed to an unlocked BL, or root. If a retailer or manufacturer claim they are, the onus is on them to prove how the unlocked BL or root caused the manufacturing or HW defect.
I have posted before on this, with links, if you wish further info.
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Click to collapse
We definately need that kinda shield in India
Sent from my GT-B5330 using xda app-developers app

irishpancake said:
I'm sorry friend, I should have not called you stupid, it does nobody any good to hurl abuse....
However, just look at what you posted, as in your first line:
Perhaps you should also reflect on the use of LOL, when the laugh is on you, really, you have even said the word root in that opening sentence!!!
If you are going to use a root explorer, it does indeed presuppose you have root.....does it not??
So, the solutions are perfectly valid, and should not be subjected to LOL and 'quotes', do you agree?? It was your misunderstanding.
BTW, unlocking your bootloader and rooting do not invalidate your statutory rights, which you have in the UK, and in my country, unless the retailer can show that by unlocking the BL, or rooting you have caused actual damage.
These rights are guaranteed by your Trading Standards, for up to six years, and are also guaranteed by EU directives, which give an EU consumer a statutory two year warranty, in addition to any manufacturers warranty.
The Motorola voided warranty notice is for their US customers, where consumer protection is not as strong as in the EU or indeed the UK.
If you are returning a phone for example, which has a hardware fault, such as a damaged USB port, or buttons which fail to do what they are supposed to do, you have consumer rights based on the fact that your device must be of merchantable quality and fit for the purpose you bought it for.
These HW faults can in no way be attributed to an unlocked BL, or root. If a retailer or manufacturer claim they are, the onus is on them to prove how the unlocked BL or root caused the manufacturing or HW defect.
I have posted before on this, with links, if you wish further info.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi irishpancake, and thank you for the apology. :good:
After looking at the sources of the solution, apparently you were one of the people suggesting it. I didn't know that until now. Anyway, maybe unfortunately, you took the 'LOL' comment personally? It wasn't intended as such, I assure you!
Using ES, I assumed (naively) that the the 'Root explorer' option, would give temporary elevated privileges. The 'LOL' was about the fact that I couldn't even turn the option ON! I now realise it's a (poorly worded?) safety option for those that already have root access. I should have known better with a Linux type OS, but never mind. :cyclops:
Anyway, the solution became yet another dead end for this parsing error problem (without root).
I'd still rather not root and have to explain statutory rights to a Tesco CS rep though to be honest - at least for the time being. But it does feel good knowing about the extra 2 years warranty, thanks.

MrWhatever said:
Hi irishpancake, and thank you for the apology. :good:
After looking at the sources of the solution, apparently you were one of the people suggesting it. I didn't know that until now. Anyway, maybe unfortunately, you took the 'LOL' comment personally? It wasn't intended as such, I assure you!
Using ES, I assumed (naively) that the the 'Root explorer' option, would give temporary elevated privileges. The 'LOL' was about the fact that I couldn't even turn the option ON! I now realise it's a (poorly worded?) safety option for those that already have root access. I should have known better with a Linux type OS, but never mind. :cyclops:
Anyway, the solution became yet another dead end for this parsing error problem (without root).
I'd still rather not root and have to explain statutory rights to a Tesco CS rep though to be honest - at least for the time being. But it does feel good knowing about the extra 2 years warranty, thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yer OK boss, no problemo!!!
Just on the returns stuff, I have had occasion to return goods, to Tesco here in Ireland, and other stores, like Curry's, even Aldi/Lidl.....
I never, ever discuss a complaint or a return with a CS rep...
I always get a Manager, and a name, and write that down in their presence.....
and I usually have a print out, from our National Consumer Agency here in Ireland, like this:
http://www.consumerhelp.ie/media/Yourrightswhenshopping1.pdf
[I believe your own Trading Standards have similar docs available, and you actually have stronger consumer protection than that offered by the EU.]
You will find they are quite aware of the law as it applies to faulty or defective goods, but unless you are equally aware and confident in your approach, they will literally walk all over you and your rights.
Hope this helps, and just to say, I removed those words from my first post replying to you....OK??
Cheers...

Location: Small Village
Naaah, it's just far away.

compact_bijou said:
Location: Small Village
Naaah, it's just far away.
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“Absurdistan is a skid mark on the pants of society.”
~ Winston Churchill on Absurdistan
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never liked dat Churchill fellah....
You have given me an idea friend....
Location: Small Village....in Absurdistan....:cyclops: