Security Flaw Bypasses AT&T Samsung Galaxy S II Screen Lock 49
zacharye writes "BGR has uncovered a security flaw on AT&T's version of the Samsung Galaxy S II that renders Android's unlock pattern feature completely useless. Using a simple workaround, the security hole allows anyone to bypass the unlock pattern, which normally denies users access to an Android device unless a preset pattern is drawn on a grid of nine dots spread across the device's lock screen."
Flaw summary (Score:5, Informative)
FTA: "If you have a PIN or an unlock pattern set, all you have to do in order to bypass it is simply tap the lock button to wake the display and then let the screen time out and go black. Tap the lock button again and low and behold, the unlock screen is gone and the phone can be accessed with no PIN or pattern input whatsoever."
Re:What unbranded phones for VZW or Sprint? (Score:4, Informative)
And if by "branded" you meant "carrier-customized firmware", is there a way to buy a phone compatible with a non-AT&T U.S. carrier (that is, Verizon Wireless or Sprint) without buying it from the carrier?
If you consider T-Mobile to still be "non-AT&T", they'll gladly sell you service for a phone that you already have. I think it's still $20/month cheaper, too.