iPhone App arises security concern

An application running on iPhone has come under the security scanner. The Ministry of Home Affairs has written to the Department of Telecom (DoT) to debar mobile operators from offering a specific application that destructs messages after it is read by the user.

This application called Tiger Text, allows users to send messages, text and video, without leaving any trail. Once a sender selects the message lifespan (from 1 minute up to 30 days), expired messages not only delete from both phones, but are not stored on any server and they cannot be retrieved. The sender can also choose other options that do not exist with other texting technology such as deleting the history of the conversation or making a text message "Delete on Read", meaning the message will disappear 60 seconds after the recipient opens the message. Indian security agencies are worried that this application will be used by spies and antisocial elements to communicate without being detected. 

According to sources, this application will be operational through a server located in the US. The use of this service by Indian service providers may create problems to law enforcement agencies (LEAs) in their operational activities. DoT has been requested that instructions may be issued to all service providers that before the launch of this service, proper arrangements for interception and monitoring is set with prior approval of LEAs. 

Security agencies had recently told telecom operators to keep a check on all calls and data transmitted through their network for a period of five years. They had also expressed concerns about 3G video calls and instant messaging services offered by the likes of Google and BlackBerry.