Last week I went to see F-Secure to hear about what's happening in the world of computer and internet security, and what they're doing about it. One of the many conversations was about mobile phones and their potential vulnerabilities. Most phones now run a complete operating system and, the more complicated a system, the more likely it is to be compromised.

The biggest risk as always though, isn't the technology but the user and this is certainly the case with Bluetooth. We haven't been convinced by the warnings about Bluejacking, but there are still many ways in which Bluetooth can be used to catch you out. Here's a quick summary of the advice from Sean, who contributes to the F-Secure blog.

Don't leave Bluetooth on when you're not using it

There's no point risking being vulnerable should someone manage to find a way to exploit Bluetooth. And in any case, Bluetooth uses valuable battery power.

Don't use a desirable name

You might be proud of your new phone, but if you advertise its model number you might be putting that advertisement in the way of someone who wants your phone.

Be careful of receiving messages

People can send you messages if Bluetooth is switched on and your phone is discoverable. If you're in a place where you don't expect to receive a text message, don't look at your phone. The example Sean gave was a mugger wanting to find out who owns the phone with the desirable name in a Tube carriage. A threatening message should produce a reaction identifying you to the potential phone thief.

Move if under attack

Bluetooth has a very short range, so if you think something is trying to attack your phone, just walk away. Granted that won’t work in the underground example given above but is more help with some of the Bluetooth enabled billboards that are being planned.