Vitamin C for Mobile Phones
Computer Scientists at Freie Universität to Develop Immune System for Mobile Devices
№ 303/2010 from Oct 12, 2010
Just in time for the start of the flu season, computer scientists at Freie Universität Berlin are working to improve the immune system of mobile devices. The research is being coordinated by Freie Universität and conducted jointly with experts in mobile systems and security in Hamburg and Bochum. The project is being funded by the German Federal Ministry of Research for two and a half years with almost one million euros.
Cell phones and smartphones are constantly being given new features. They already serve not only as a phone, calendar, and address book – soon they will also replace airline tickets and be used for cashless payment. Equipment that can do so much requires particular protection from unauthorized access from outside. “Similar to our biological immune system, each device must learn from the threats and build defense strategies,” said Jochen Schiller, professor of computer science and head of the project.
By the time the project is completed in mid-2012, the group aims to have developed a collaborative, digital immune system capable of providing comprehensive protection. Schiller and his colleagues will develop intelligent detection and prevention software, which would itself function to protect mobile phones and would also draw on other technical devices in the area for assistance. It would establish a kind of defense system, making it possible to reduce the spread of infections.
Further Information
Prof. Dr. Jochen Schiller, Freie Universität Berlin, Institute of Computer Science
Tel.: +49 (0)30 / 838–75213, Email: jochen.schiller@fu-berlin.de