Database Info

Security

Alright. Just got my Infuse last month. I picked this phone for specific reasons. Nevermind that. What I am curious about is this:
How secure are custom ROMs?
I know...noob. However, I have read a lot about it...or attempted to anyway. I am not finding much in the way of a technical explanation of why custom ROMs are secure.
Because of the nature of what I do, I need things to be pretty locked down.
I used to have a cappy, which I flashed a few ROMs to, and eventually bricked. But again, my job deals with personal info in my gmail inbox. I can't compromise that.
Alright, super long blabfest cut short: how secure are any of these ROMs?
Thanks for reading, thanks for writing, and most of all, thanks to the Devs!!!
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I997 using XDA App

I don't think anybody has had any "security" issues. I mean after all they are or most of them are Samsung based roms, just with mods and themes applied to them.
Sent from my SGH-I997 using xda premium

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honestly if your worried about your phone then i think you need to NOT have a smart phone .. not bashing you just saying if you it upload it etc etc people can and will fined it

jfromh said:
Alright. Just got my Infuse last month. I picked this phone for specific reasons. Nevermind that. What I am curious about is this:
How secure are custom ROMs?
I know...noob. However, I have read a lot about it...or attempted to anyway. I am not finding much in the way of a technical explanation of why custom ROMs are secure.
Because of the nature of what I do, I need things to be pretty locked down.
I used to have a cappy, which I flashed a few ROMs to, and eventually bricked. But again, my job deals with personal info in my gmail inbox. I can't compromise that.
Alright, super long blabfest cut short: how secure are any of these ROMs?
Thanks for reading, thanks for writing, and most of all, thanks to the Devs!!!
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I997 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am not a Dev, but I understand a little regarding software security from my software hack days.
Running these Custom ROMs are secure, it's your individual setting per app is where you manage your security. There are software apps free and paid, I have tried Norton apps for security on the Infuse, check it out its free and I believe it has a trial period. I understand what your concern, I have 4 email accounts that I run, with a govt email being forwarded to one of the four.

As per google's policy, they can retain your info (including personal) indefinitely. They could share non personal info like browsing habits with their partners. Personal info would be divulged law enforcement officers when request comes in through proper channels. This is the norm with all online providers.
If you are talking about encryption and such stuff, make sure you enable strong passwords (not simple pattern based or number based).
Also set the option in settings to disable USB debugging when phone is locked. This will prevent connecting and issuing adb commands at system level.
Set up software like avast to send remote commands to phone when you feel its lost to erase the phone as first step.
When you try to install stuff from market, see for what permissions it uses. If you are uncomfortable, and the vendor isn't a well known entity, don't install such software.
These are some basic measures you could try employing. 100% security is something not achievable, cos if it were, we wouldn't be having so many people/companies working on anti virus software.

You spoke about gmail...check out their 2 layer security protection for gmail. You have to have your phone WITH you in order to log in. I know it's not what you asked but I'm sure U would be interested in setting that up.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I997 using Tapatalk

ateebtk said:
You spoke about gmail...check out their 2 layer security protection for gmail. You have to have your phone WITH you in order to log in. I know it's not what you asked but I'm sure U would be interested in setting that up.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I997 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think this is only for browsers. On phone, once setup, it stays.
@OP: In case you lose your phone, change your gmail password on computer, and it will auto disconnect the email and market on phone.

There are several apps on the market, Cerberus and Lookout, for example, that will let you remote wipe your phone if it gets lost or stolen. Also they allow you to send text messages to your device or email messages to turn on wifi/gps and locate it, send you back information, set off the alarm, etc.
There's also an app called Divide iirc, that lets you set up a 'work' and 'personal' data/app profile, so when you hand off your phone to someone or take it into work, you can set it into work mode, and your personal data is unavailable until you switch back.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using xda premium

adalgiso said:
There's also an app called Divide iirc, that lets you set up a 'work' and 'personal' data/app profile, so when you hand off your phone to someone or take it into work, you can set it into work mode, and your personal data is unavailable until you switch back.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Gotta try this Divide IIRC

@diablo Now I know what you were talking about in much more detail.. Very interesting.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I997 using Tapatalk

Erik_T said:
@diablo Now I know what you were talking about in much more detail.. Very interesting.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I997 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
See, finally it came out here what I kinda should've put out for you in our PMs.

CheesyNutz said:
honestly if your worried about your phone then i think you need to NOT have a smart phone .. not bashing you just saying if you it upload it etc etc people can and will fined it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Dude. I'm not going without a smartphone. Before I bricked it, I had teamhacksung's ICS on it. There's no way I'm going to have a dumbphone. It's hard enough going back to Froyo and Touchwiz.
I work in an industry that by its very nature is mobile. I understand that transmitting data & putting stuff in the cloud carries some risk. What I want to understand better is whether I am adding to that risk by getting rid of official firmware and installing something that isn't.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I997 using XDA App

I have been using Lookout. I have tried a few security apps, but I've also read a few articles that seem to indicate that it's unclear whether some of those apps work because there has been few widespread outbreaks.
My primary concern is the relative security of my clients' data. Their email could be hacked before it ever gets to me too. But, after spending a month with TouchWiz, I am drooling over some of the ROMs I'm seeing here. Particularly interested about Revelation.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I997 using XDA App

diablo009 said:
As per google's policy, they can retain your info (including personal) indefinitely. They could share non personal info like browsing habits with their partners. Personal info would be divulged law enforcement officers when request comes in through proper channels. This is the norm with all online providers.
If you are talking about encryption and such stuff, make sure you enable strong passwords (not simple pattern based or number based).
Also set the option in settings to disable USB debugging when phone is locked. This will prevent connecting and issuing adb commands at system level.
Set up software like avast to send remote commands to phone when you feel its lost to erase the phone as first step.
When you try to install stuff from market, see for what permissions it uses. If you are uncomfortable, and the vendor isn't a well known entity, don't install such software.
These are some basic measures you could try employing. 100% security is something not achievable, cos if it were, we wouldn't be having so many people/companies working on anti virus software.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks...good stuff! I recently shared a couple of those things with some folks who just got their first Androids.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I997 using XDA App

ateebtk said:
You spoke about gmail...check out their 2 layer security protection for gmail. You have to have your phone WITH you in order to log in. I know it's not what you asked but I'm sure U would be interested in setting that up.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I997 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Very interesting. Will definitely take a peek. Thanks!
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I997 using XDA App

diablo009 said:
I think this is only for browsers. On phone, once setup, it stays.
@OP: In case you lose your phone, change your gmail password on computer, and it will auto disconnect the email and market on phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. Didn't know that, very smart
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I997 using XDA App

adalgiso said:
There's also an app called Divide iirc, that lets you set up a 'work' and 'personal' data/app profile, so when you hand off your phone to someone or take it into work, you can set it into work mode, and your personal data is unavailable until you switch back.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That sounds pretty badass. Thanks!
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I997 using XDA App

jfromh said:
I work in an industry that by its very nature is mobile. I understand that transmitting data & putting stuff in the cloud carries some risk. What I want to understand better is whether I am adding to that risk by getting rid of official firmware and installing something that isn't.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I997 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To be honest, the custom ROMs here are more secure than the stock one, with an exception that they are rooted. But by enabling certain options I mentioned above, this can be overcome (I am referring to disabling USB debugging when screen is locked).
Also, the ROM devs go to lengths to incorporate any security loopholes that they find out. Best example was the loggers on most HTC phones that logged even sensitive info like passwords. The devs here took care of taking it out from their ROMs.
jfromh said:
My primary concern is the relative security of my clients' data. Their email could be hacked before it ever gets to me too. But, after spending a month with TouchWiz, I am drooling over some of the ROMs I'm seeing here. Particularly interested about Revelation.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I997 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is a relative flaw in android that it currently does not support device level encryption like blackberry. BBs go the extent of not even showing contacts and requiring a full reset of device on things like SIM change. Android still doesn't have this feature. There are some workarounds though that we could employ to use this wonderful OS.
Most security apps today (like avast; I am not marketing this app, but this is one of apps I tried that is free and has a hell load of options) can be configured at system level as device admins. And they have options that can help keep them alive even after a full system reset (helps save from majority of users).
---------- Post added at 08:43 PM ---------- Previous post was at 08:41 PM ----------
diablo009 said:
Gotta try this Divide IIRC
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Am unable to find this app in market. Any market link?

diablo009 said:
To be honest, the custom ROMs here are more secure than the stock one, with an exception that they are rooted. But by enabling certain options I mentioned above, this can be overcome (I am referring to disabling USB debugging when screen is locked).
Also, the ROM devs go to lengths to incorporate any security loopholes that they find out. Best example was the loggers on most HTC phones that logged even sensitive info like passwords. The devs here took care of taking it out from their ROMs.
This is a relative flaw in android that it currently does not support device level encryption like blackberry. BBs go the extent of not even showing contacts and requiring a full reset of device on things like SIM change. Android still doesn't have this feature. There are some workarounds though that we could employ to use this wonderful OS.
Most security apps today (like avast; I am not marketing this app, but this is one of apps I tried that is free and has a hell load of options) can be configured at system level as device admins. And they have options that can help keep them alive even after a full system reset (helps save from majority of users).
---------- Post added at 08:43 PM ---------- Previous post was at 08:41 PM ----------
Am unable to find this app in market. Any market link?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow. Even I found it. Feels great. To help the smart guy. Even just a little.
I do believe this is what he is talking about...
https://market.android.com/details?id=com.enterproid.divideinstaller
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I997 using Tapatalk

Erik_T said:
Wow. Even I found it. Feels great. To help the smart guy. Even just a little.
I do believe this is what he is talking about...
https://market.android.com/details?id=com.enterproid.divideinstaller
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I997 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks Erik. I wasn't able to find it myself

[PSA] HTC "confirmed" ATT one x will get official bootloader unlock support.

[PSA] HTC "confirmed" ATT one x will get official bootloader unlock support.
I was frustrated with 2.20 OTA and not being able to unlock. I wrote HTC an email this is their response:
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He doesn't say ATT but instead says "ALL" HTC devices, Some people may say I already knew this but for me at least this is the first time it has been posted "officially" not just word of mouth this came from an HTC technical support employee. So with what he wrote I am thinking end of this month or early Septmember, with the end of September beginning of October being the very latest an unlockable RUU whould be available on the HTC dev website.
This is good news as long as they follow through with it but if not I don't think I can keep my one X since its on 2.20 and there is no unlock support or root for it at the moment!

I thought you unlocked yours
Sent from my HTC One X using xda premium

That's quite interesting considering the other things we've been told about the handset and HTC's disclaimer on the Dev site. I'll believe it when I see it but it's at least good to know that *someone* over there feels it's a possibility.
Thanks for sharing!

gunnyman said:
I thought you unlocked yours
Sent from my HTC One X using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did but lost it due to a root method was trying. Had to replace my supercid so phone would appear stock. Method failed now stuck on 2.20 no root, etc lol

I'm going to remain skeptical. HTC's track record has been pretty bad since the G2

eraste said:
I did but lost it due to a root method was trying. Had to replace my supercid so phone would appear stock. Method failed now stuck on 2.20 no root, etc lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Bummer

Wait, your name is really Eraste? And to think this whole time I just thought you didn't know how to spell "erased"
Sent from my HTC One X using xda premium

_MetalHead_ said:
Wait, your name is really Eraste? And to think this whole time I just thought you didn't know how to spell "erased"
Sent from my HTC One X using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LMAO not the first time thats happened, learned to fight well in high school! :laugh:

The more times I read that email the more I think HTC thinks you're talking about source code. 90-120 days is the timeframe for source code.
Yet another case of them not understanding the question.
They don't release RUU's on HTC Dev this is the main "gotcha" in the email for me.

gunnyman said:
The more times I read that email the more I think HTC thinks you're talking about source code. 90-120 days is the timeframe for source code.
Yet another case of them not understanding the question.
They don't release RUU's on HTC Dev this is the main "gotcha" in the email for me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ahh but they did for the HTC incredible. When it finally was officially supported you had to download an RUU that would replace the Hboot to supported version.
Thats were the * indicates required hboot comes in at on the site

eraste said:
ahh but they did for the HTC incredible. When it finally was officially supported you had to download an RUU that would replace the Hboot to supported version.
Thats were the * indicates required hboot comes in at on the site
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh ok. then. Carry on

gunnyman said:
Oh ok. then. Carry on
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe. But our hboots support it just fine. Our tokens are just blacklisted on htcdev.

beaups said:
Maybe. But our hboots support it just fine. Our tokens are just blacklisted on htcdev.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I trust at&t about as far as I can throw a shot put without steroids.
I'm somewhat surprised a new root method hasn't been found yet. I know people are working hard on it, but coming from a captivate it surprises me. Is this a product of android being more secure or htc getting better at security?
Sent from my HTC One X using xda app-developers app

drummaniac83 said:
I trust at&t about as far as I can throw a shot put without steroids.
I'm somewhat surprised a new root method hasn't been found yet. I know people are working hard on it, but coming from a captivate it surprises me. Is this a product of android being more secure or htc getting better at security?
Sent from my HTC One X using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1.85 took a good bit of time, even with very dedicated people working on it. As time goes on, HTC keeps tightening up security even more, so it's no surprise that it gets harder.

Maybe we need a think tank thread.
Sent from my HTC One X using xda premium

gunnyman said:
Maybe we need a think tank thread.
Sent from my HTC One X using xda premium
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Click to collapse
My only concern if they dont officially support it, All new att devices have already began shipping with 2.20 its only a matter of time before the pre owned ones are upgraded also, this means if someone gets it new or has to get a replacement the probability that it will come with 1.85 ( last rootable version) is getting slimmer and slimmer. Maybe a bounty and think tank would light some fires lol.

eraste said:
My only concern if they dont officially support it, All new att devices have already began shipping with 2.20 its only a matter of time before the pre owned ones are upgraded also, this means if someone gets it new or has to get a replacement the probability that it will come with 1.85 ( last rootable version) is getting slimmer and slimmer. Maybe a bounty and think tank would light some fires lol.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's been my opinion for a while now that without sanctioned boot loader unlock or s- off we're screwed. HTC has given us the iHox.
Sent from my HTC One X using xda premium

Time will tell. In the meantime 2.2 is smooth and stable for me. Although I miss the easter egg jelly bean boot animation eraste put out
Sent from my HTC One X

Screw em. If they don't ever release source/bootloader unlock/kernels, then screw em. This will be my last HTC device if they can't get their ducks in a row. Guess I'll have to move to Samsung *shudder*

XNine said:
Screw em. If they don't ever release source/bootloader unlock/kernels, then screw em. This will be my last HTC device if they can't get their ducks in a row. Guess I'll have to move to Samsung *shudder*
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I like the phone stock, honestly. Rooting this phone is only a matter of rebellion for me. Keep in mind thay the majority of people dont know what root even is. So the fact that they are doing what they are doing could just be out of spite or some under the table kind of agreement they have made with the carriers. HTC rooting and unlocking is stupid complicated despite one clicks compared to my old Nexus. I would love S-Off and some cool feautures and maybe some speed tweaks but if it doesnt happen then I got time to wait for the next big deal...not like they dont come out every six months.
Sent from my SPH-D710 using xda premium

Will T-Mobile USA Variant Have a Locked Bootloader?

Self explanatory title.

All signs point to yes
Sent from my GT-I9505G

If so, I'm out.

I just read that in the us the phone will be unlocked

Where? The Z1s was not unlockable. There is no precedence that you can unlock it.
Sent from my GT-I9505G

jonshipman said:
Where? The Z1s was not unlockable. There is no precedence that you can unlock it.
Sent from my GT-I9505G
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://www.christiantoday.com/article/sony.xperia.z3.compact.release.date.asia.us.launch/40791.htm

It was saying sim unlocked for the Z3 Compact via Sony USA. Bootloader unlocked means loading new kernels by going to developer.sony.com.
Sent from my GT-I9505G

jonshipman said:
All signs point to yes
Sent from my GT-I9505G
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Click to collapse
Yikes.

bbot3k said:
Yikes.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It will still be rootable, though.

We can still root it, though.

Why is that a problem
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using XDA Free mobile app

PunishedSnake said:
Why is that a problem
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you're a developer, an unlocked bootloader is good as you have more tools too use.
As a consumer, if Sony stops updating after a year you have the potential to install homebrew and extend the life of your hardware.
For me, personally, it isn't a big deal. Last phone I unlocked was the HTC One X. Mainly for bloatwear, backups, and updates (I believe I had to flash GTalk to get a video calling version, but that might have been the Xperia Play). But now I can adb backup and disable apps. Google App updates now happen through the Play store so I think the biggest need for consumer unlocking is almost nil. If you keep a phone 3 years+ you may want to unlock for custom ROMs.
It's not like Sony isn't providing the option, just get the OEM model instead of the carrier model.

Don_Perrignon said:
We can still root it, though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Says who? The Z1s took AGES to root. I mean like 6 months...

jonshipman said:
If you're a developer, an unlocked bootloader is good as you have more tools too use.
As a consumer, if Sony stops updating after a year you have the potential to install homebrew and extend the life of your hardware.
For me, personally, it isn't a big deal. Last phone I unlocked was the HTC One X. Mainly for bloatwear, backups, and updates (I believe I had to flash GTalk to get a video calling version, but that might have been the Xperia Play). But now I can adb backup and disable apps. Google App updates now happen through the Play store so I think the biggest need for consumer unlocking is almost nil. If you keep a phone 3 years+ you may want to unlock for custom ROMs.
It's not like Sony isn't providing the option, just get the OEM model instead of the carrier model.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
GIven that it looks like Sony will also be selling an unlocked model, it's highly likely that THAT model will be more "developer oriented" and therefore bootloader-unlocked.
T-Mobile phones generally don't need or want 3rd party ROMs, because T-Mobile users like to hang onto WiFi calling. So it makes sense to lock that bootloader.

npaladin2000 said:
GIven that it looks like Sony will also be selling an unlocked model, it's highly likely that THAT model will be more "developer oriented" and therefore bootloader-unlocked.
T-Mobile phones generally don't need or want 3rd party ROMs, because T-Mobile users like to hang onto WiFi calling. So it makes sense to lock that bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In regards to the unlocked version, will ther ebe a 32 gb version? I have AT&T currently and I am not very interested in switching carriers to T-Mo (even if they provide Wi-Fi calling).

aooga said:
Says who? The Z1s took AGES to root. I mean like 6 months...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Took ages for public release. Took very little fire someone to achieve it. One of the main reasons for delay was that the Z2 was around the corner and some security mobile event. The Z3 should be getting released within a relatively close time for each country.

Vaga Liki said:
In regards to the unlocked version, will ther ebe a 32 gb version? I have AT&T currently and I am not very interested in switching carriers to T-Mo (even if they provide Wi-Fi calling).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
whitepaper says D6616(t-mobile specific version) up to 32GB, everyone else up to 16GB
http://dl-developer.sonymobile.com/...ria_Z3_D6603_D6633_D6643_D6653_D6616_WP_1.pdf

Truthfully, doesn't matter to me anymore. My Z1s showed me an Android experience I didn't want to modify, if the Z3 is the same then I'm perfectly fine with a locked bootloader. I understand why a lot of people don't like it, but for me, Sony does Android right. The ONLY reason I rooted my Z1s after the 4.4.4 update was when I decided I wanted to screen mirror to my Chromecast (which requires root since it's not enabled on the Z1s by default), and this was at least a month after the 4.4.4 update. I dunno, I just don't want to tinker anymore, and the Z1s works very very well for that. And seeing as the battery life on the Z3 is nothing short of amazing, I'll probably get it regardless of bootloader status. Or maybe I'll get the Z3 compact...

I got an email yesterday to pre register for the Z3 on TMo, unfortunately I am on VZW so it doesnt help me at all. Just thought I would let u TMo users know that its on its way to being a reality. Check ur emails.

TokedUp said:
I got an email yesterday to pre register for the Z3 on TMo, unfortunately I am on VZW so it doesnt help me at all. Just thought I would let u TMo users know that its on its way to being a reality. Check ur emails.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, they said a few weeks still though. Mid october is my guess.

CM12 with locked Bootloader actually possible?

After 5.0 hits all the Z3 devices i wonder if its actually possible to have a locked bootloader with functional DRM Keys on a Custom rom like CM12?
Sorry for this dumb question i am actually really new on all this android stuff! switched from an iphone 5 but i love my xperia Z3
greetings and thanks for the reply

n1ete said:
After 5.0 hits all the Z3 devices i wonder if its actually possible to have a locked bootloader with functional DRM Keys on a Custom rom like CM12?
Sorry for this dumb question i am actually really new on all this android stuff! switched from an iphone 5 but i love my xperia Z3
greetings and thanks for the reply
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In short no. It requires a working kexec and that has not been able for about 18 months now

OK, thank you for this answer! so how hard will it be to archive this goal? any possibilities ?

n1ete said:
After 5.0 hits all the Z3 devices i wonder if its actually possible to have a locked bootloader with functional DRM Keys on a Custom rom like CM12?
Sorry for this dumb question i am actually really new on all this android stuff! switched from an iphone 5 but i love my xperia Z3
greetings and thanks for the reply
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There are no need for features protected by DRM keys.
CM don't have those things...
That's the whole purposes of DRM keys...to hide Sonys features and innovations from third parties..
When you are using CM ROM or something that's not stock or stock based you don't have X-reality or stock camera app with low light processing, at least not developed by Sony...
DRM keys are overrated...That's just mechanism to protect code...nothing special...
So when you unlock bootloader system will wipe some of parts so other manufacturers or developers can't see what's under the hood and can't take that and implement them into their work...
Z3 powered by Tapatalk

True about DRM
But as for getting a working kexec, a lot of good people have tried and seem to keep getting stuck with the problem that we just do not have Sony's keys. Without them its impossible*. I would not hold out any hopes for anything soon....
*Obviously nothing is impossible, I could break RSA code given a powerful enough computer and few thousand years...

If you can backup the TA partition with a root exploit before unlocking the bootloader can you not extract the keys from that partition?
Sent from my D6603 using XDA Free mobile app

Bansheleh said:
If you can backup the TA partition with a root exploit before unlocking the bootloader can you not extract the keys from that partition?
Sent from my D6603 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The TA partition is signed such that if you restore a TA partition with valid DRM keys, you also restore the bootloader lock. If you try to alter it in order to have an unlocked bootloader and DRM keys, the signature check fails and you've got a hardbrick.

Entropy512 said:
The TA partition is signed such that if you restore a TA partition with valid DRM keys, you also restore the bootloader lock. If you try to alter it in order to have an unlocked bootloader and DRM keys, the signature check fails and you've got a hardbrick.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The DRM keys seems to be endless mantra here... I will make an educated guess... People who invested almost 600€ into top notch phone and are keen on Sony bells and whistles will prefer to stay on stock with possibility to root on locked bootloader. People who develop CM or AOSP have other motivation than keeping on Sony proprietary code. They want they excellent hardware to run open and clean system. So they will not invest their time and efforts into breaking DRM for couple of low-light picture and X-reality frenzy. Not to speak about legal implications.. So in my opinion we are not going to see DRM protected code running on CM or elsewhere. And that's right. What is Cesar's belongs to Cesar.
Sent from my D6603 using XDA Free mobile app

ondrejvaroscak said:
The DRM keys seems to be endless mantra here... I will make an educated guess... People who invested almost 600€ into top notch phone and are keen on Sony bells and whistles will prefer to stay on stock with possibility to root on locked bootloader. People who develop CM or AOSP have other motivation than keeping on Sony proprietary code. They want they excellent hardware to run open and clean system. So they will not invest their time and efforts into breaking DRM for couple of low-light picture and X-reality frenzy. Not to speak about legal implications.. So in my opinion we are not going to see DRM protected code running on CM or elsewhere. And that's right. What is Cesar's belongs to Cesar.
Sent from my D6603 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, the only real "loss" from losing the DRM keys for many of us is that frequently Sony's cam blobs outright fail without DRM keys - and our approach to that is more political - we're trying to cooperate with Sony's devrel team to get their production firmware teams to stop making cam HALs that break catastrophically on unlocked devices.
A lot of us were REALLY annoyed when a GPE device (ZU GPE) had the camera break on unlocked devices. The problem is, working with the TA partition is fundamentally dangerous, and Sony does a GREAT job of bootloader security. Over the years, bootloader unlock exploits have become rarer and rarer and it just isn't worth the effort. There's a lot less effort and risk in unbreaking the cam HALs.

Entropy512 said:
Yeah, the only real "loss" from losing the DRM keys for many of us is that frequently Sony's cam blobs outright fail without DRM keys - and our approach to that is more political - we're trying to cooperate with Sony's devrel team to get their production firmware teams to stop making cam HALs that break catastrophically on unlocked devices.
A lot of us were REALLY annoyed when a GPE device (ZU GPE) had the camera break on unlocked devices. The problem is, working with the TA partition is fundamentally dangerous, and Sony does a GREAT job of bootloader security. Over the years, bootloader unlock exploits have become rarer and rarer and it just isn't worth the effort. There's a lot less effort and risk in unbreaking the cam HALs.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I understand the Sony politics but I am honestly convinced that they would greatly benefit from Open Source development community of they wouldn't make such big obstructions on codebase. Z series are amazing devices and would be even better with clean open high performance bloat free system.
Sent from my D6603 using XDA Free mobile app

Should I buy the Z5 or not?

Hello everyone.. I'm using xperia z right now. Its been an old phone and pretty well outdated so I need an upgrade. Wanted to go for Z2 but it seems old as well compared to Z3 then Z3+ and now Z5. Xperia Z5 is pretty catchy as I see. And I really like it but I'm just scared. I don't want to spent much money then regret! I've been reading around the threads here about the problem. Some people are talking about the low battery capacity.. Others are talking about the bad camera which is stressing me mostly. Others are talking about the blurry edges and the "fisheye" camera. All these are making me stressed about buying it. I know its a great phone and almost perfect but oh well :/ im using xperia z like I said and the camera is pretty ugly right now. Much noise (I see small random blue and red dots) in low lighted places (indoors) which is annoying. I have xperia tx and its camera is hella better than the Z! Sharp and clear almost like the iPhone... People are talking about noise and blur in pics. Is it that bad as the Z? Try to cover your lens and see! Do you see the noise of the camera just like the Z? I'd appreciate it if someone gives me some honest answers. I'm a Sony fan as well! But the Z5 is confusing me especially with the people. And what with the Rev X thing? And the color? Does that also matter? I'd like the black one!
And other thing also. The screen angles. In the videos I see the white screen turns into purple on different angles. Is it really like that or the camera which is used to record the video's fault? ?
Please just give me some honest answers about the battery, camera (most) and the screen angles thing. And if I should go for this device as a final decision
Thank you all and sorry for taking a lot of your time and the huge paragraph!
Z --------> Z5?
ӾҎΣЯłΛ Ƶ_

I was in the same boat, as there were a lot of people commenting about all sorts of issues.
I decided to try my first Sony, a Z5, and I haven't regretted it. It lasts as long if not longer than my old G2. I've had 4 1/2 hours screen on time, which is about an hour longer than I got with the G2.
It's been a good upgrade for me. My only concern is that the MM update is taking a long time, and Sony seem to have gone mad securing the device, so there is minimal hope of getting root, without permanently losing some features (you can fool the software though).
Sent from my E6653 using Tapatalk

chronicfathead said:
I was in the same boat, as there were a lot of people commenting about all sorts of issues.
I decided to try my first Sony, a Z5, and I haven't regretted it. It lasts as long if not longer than my old G2. I've had 4 1/2 hours screen on time, which is about an hour longer than I got with the G2.
It's been a good upgrade for me. My only concern is that the MM update is taking a long time, and Sony seem to have gone mad securing the device, so there is minimal hope of getting root, without permanently losing some features (you can fool the software though).
Sent from my E6653 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well... I hope I won't regret it just like you ..and yeah. They're taking long about the update. I hope it improves the performance and camera. And just another question if you don't mind asking. Is there any way to root it without unlocking the bootloader? I will seriously need to root it because it'll be necessary for the data restoration thanks again..
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Infected_15 said:
Well... I hope I won't regret it just like you ..and yeah. They're taking long about the update. I hope it improves the performance and camera. And just another question if you don't mind asking. Is there any way to root it without unlocking the bootloader? I will seriously need to root it because it'll be necessary for the data restoration thanks again..
ӾҎΣЯłΛ Ƶ_
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unfortunately not yet ?? we have to wait and i guess no one will work one the lollipop!! They are waiting for MM to root it with unlocking the bootloader

Wess.a said:
Unfortunately not yet ?? we have to wait and i guess no one will work one the lollipop!! They are waiting for MM to root it with unlocking the bootloader
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ow.. That's not so good. Even if we wanted to unlock it. Its impossible to backup the DRM keys :/ I guess you're right. Fingers crossed for the marshmallow!
Thanks
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This is a picture from the front cam (5 mp) covered.
And this is from the rear cam (23 mp) covered.
But honestly, let me tell that the camera is really good!! I loved it. And the battery life is around 5 hours screen-on and on 3g without playing anygame and stamina on below 20%. Its just the mobile radio active bug that kills the battery and get the phone down to 3 hours only instead of 5+ hours. They said its fixed in the MM, so we are waiting to see that. The phone powerful and strong. I like it but its bothering me the DRM keys and that we have to wait for the MM.
Sent from my E6653 using Tapatalk

Wess.a said:
This is a picture from the front cam (5 mp) covered.
And this is from the rear cam (23 mp) covered.
But honestly, let me tell that the camera is really good!! I loved it. And the battery life is around 5 hours screen-on and on 3g without playing anygame and stamina on below 20%. Its just the mobile radio active bug that kills the battery and get the phone down to 3 hours only instead of 5+ hours. They said its fixed in the MM, so we are waiting to see that. The phone powerful and strong. I like it but its bothering me the DRM keys and that we have to wait for the MM.
Sent from my E6653 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here's my covered camera experience (Z). I think its not good. Yours is noticeably better I see.
And there:
You can see the weird noise in the picture if you zoom in. Is it like that if you take a similar picture on your phone? Can you do me a favor and show me please?
And the battery is I don't know.. Some people are getting from 4 to 7 hours screen on time.. Hopefully it gets fixed in marshmallow..
Thanks
ӾҎΣЯłΛ Ƶ_

Infected_15 said:
Well... I hope I won't regret it just like you ..and yeah. They're taking long about the update. I hope it improves the performance and camera. And just another question if you don't mind asking. Is there any way to root it without unlocking the bootloader? I will seriously need to root it because it'll be necessary for the data restoration thanks again..
ӾҎΣЯłΛ Ƶ_
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is currently no way of obtaining root without unlocking boot loader.
I believe it is down to the extra security there is in place..
You can unlock the bootloader, root and then restore the DRM features, but you will have lost the features if you ever want to go back to stock. I'm holding off until we get MM as it the device may find a way to root without unlock.
Sent from my E6653 using Tapatalk

Infected_15 said:
Here's my covered camera experience (Z). I think its not good. Yours is noticeably better I see.
And there:
You can see the weird noise in the picture if you zoom in. Is it like that if you take a similar picture on your phone? Can you do me a favor and show me please?
And the battery is I don't know.. Some people are getting from 4 to 7 hours screen on time.. Hopefully it gets fixed in marshmallow..
Thanks
ӾҎΣЯłΛ Ƶ_
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here it is. And about battery life
But i got better battery life than that but unfortunately i didnt screenshot it.
Sent from my E6653 using Tapatalk

The problem with reading online is people only write about the bad things. I personally haven't experienced most of the issues that I've seen others write about. I'd like to say I also came from the original Xperia Z and as it's almost the same size it's in my opinion the best upgrade. My friend had a Z3 which was noticeably bigger which put me off. I'm actually living without root atm although I'm eager to use some root apps that I really miss especially for advertisements as I think advertising is ruining the internet completely.
All in all had this phone since launch and I'm very happy
Sent from my Xperia™ Z5 using Tapatalk

Wess.a said:
Here it is. And about battery life
But i got better battery life than that but unfortunately i didnt screenshot it.
Sent from my E6653 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you the camera seems good enough and not bad as what people say.. The battery life as well..
ӾҎΣЯłΛ Ƶ_

zippy01 said:
The problem with reading online is people only write about the bad things. I personally haven't experienced most of the issues that I've seen others write about. I'd like to say I also came from the original Xperia Z and as it's almost the same size it's in my opinion the best upgrade. My friend had a Z3 which was noticeably bigger which put me off. I'm actually living without root atm although I'm eager to use some root apps that I really miss especially for advertisements as I think advertising is ruining the internet completely.
All in all had this phone since launch and I'm very happy
Sent from my Xperia™ Z5 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Its okay to live without root sometimes but the most important thing that I will need the root in is when I will restore my apps backup. ROM toolbox needs root to work
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Definitively a Very Very Good Phone...
No regret and very satisfied !!!

chrisftlse said:
Definitively a Very Very Good Phone...
No regret and very satisfied !!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Glad to hear that! Now I'm reading about the self cracking back panel -_- its getting me worried..well the same thing was being said with the xperia Z. But mine is just fine :/
ӾҎΣЯłΛ Ƶ_

Infected_15 said:
Glad to hear that! Now I'm reading about the self cracking back panel -_- its getting me worried..well the same thing was being said with the xperia Z. But mine is just fine :/
ӾҎΣЯłΛ Ƶ_
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
See!! Thats how it goes!! Well mine is flawless too, its a matter of a 1 in a million case but no one can grantee anything.
Sent from my E6653 using Tapatalk

Wess.a said:
See!! Thats how it goes!! Well mine is flawless too, its a matter of a 1 in a million case but no one can grantee anything.
Sent from my E6653 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol yeah I guess its true.. Thanks for your support and answers Btw
ӾҎΣЯłΛ Ƶ_

Here it is!! This is the battery atm but i used 2g yesterday and am going to try it on 3g today and send you the results ?
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Just upgraded from a Z3, and no regrets so far I did not even check for issues and I'm not experiencing any so far ... every phone comes with its share of issues, that's what the warranty is for.

Wess.a said:
Here it is!! This is the battery atm but i used 2g yesterday and am going to try it on 3g today and send you the results ?
Sent from my E6653 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's pretty cool.. Thank you!
Edit: how about the android os bug (radio bug)? Is it really that bad?
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c6nsor9d said:
Just upgraded from a Z3, and no regrets so far I did not even check for issues and I'm not experiencing any so far ... every phone comes with its share of issues, that's what the warranty is for.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
People are always saying that the Z3 is better in everything :/
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