There is apparently a huge flaw in the security surrounding SprintTV (MobiTV) and someone on HowardForums posted how to get the service free with any phone capable of playing 3GP video files that also has an unlimited mobile browser option on the account.

MobiTV is now trying to shut down HowardForums for having that info on the server.

To avoid Hugh having similar issues I will not provide a link, however, if you are interested in getting more info just google "MobiTV hofo".

from here (http://www.howardforums.com/showthread.php?t=1338538&page=1&pp=15)

Hey everyone. Just so you know HowardForums may be experience difficulties in the next few days.

Basically this is what happening. It turns out Mobitv stores links to their feeds in a plain text file that anyone with internet access can view. Apparently viewing this text file is considered 'hacking'. Remember, next time you google and find something someone doesn't want you to see mobitv consider that hacking. These feeds do not appear to be protected in an anyway and it appears anyone with a compatible phone can view them.

I'm sure Mobitv's content providers would be very interested to know that mobitv is broadcasting their intellectual property while taking such measures to protect it.

It's like they're a movie theater with see through walls. If you walk by you can see what's going on but they don't want you to.

Anyways Mobitv is asking us to remove the link to this text file. If we do not they are threatening to contact ICANN and HowardForum's host to get the site pulled down.

I have posted the link. I don't like to see quality forums like Howards threatened because Digital Home or AVS could be next.

Thanks, I thought I would let you make the call since it's your house.

I just wanted to get the word out.

So does it work? Are people with appropriate phones watching MobiTv for free?

Unfortunately my current phone isn't MobiTV capable so I can't test the links (entering them in my phone's browser gave an error) but my old phone had MobiTV and it was trash.

It does work, and the channel selection is much better than offered here in Canada.

You will however need an EVDO connection to have a decent picture.

Apprently it works pretty well. But with my Telus Blackberry, I keep getting an error about an unsupported format. In the forums I go to at crackberry.com, someone posted the links and just about everyone was responding "thank you, awesome". So, it works.

And even the links, you could copy and paste them and email them to yourself. And then on your phone, just click the link to start it up. Way too easy. But crackberry had taken down the posts a couple of days ago after "being threatened."

LOL.

This reminds of a recent story

http://thedailywtf.com/Articles/So-You-Hacked-Our-Site!.aspx


If there is a hole in the fence, people will look in. Its not their problem, its your fence!

I'm surprised at how little discussion and press this is drawing! I frankly expected this to be a hot topic. The AP article in the Globe has only garned seven comments. I guess it would only be news if they actually shut Howard down.

The president of MobiTV apoligized for the threat their lawyer made. It seems that it is over, however, a few members have resorted to making fun of the spelling in the apology letter.

It was picked up by the AP, but I guess not terribly news worthy. If MobiTV threathened Britney Spears, it would be a completely different story. LOL

Hugh, it IS hot news, its just this is not as hot as hofo is to find this out.

LOL.

This reminds of a recent story

http://thedailywtf.com/Articles/So-You-Hacked-Our-Site!.aspx


If there is a hole in the fence, people will look in. Its not their problem, its your fence!
Absolutely right Polaris! If MobiTV was smart they'd sit down and shut up and fix the problem wherein their data is hanging out for all the world to see. As it is they are like a topless woman walking down the street who gets indignant because men are looking at her .....