Cellnet owns up to security flaw

Mobile operator, Cellnet has admitted to a security flaw in its pre-pay mobile phone services, Easylife and U.

Unlike other mobile networks, Cellnet allows users to top up their credits using only their phone keypads over an automated call system. This leaves the way open for fraudsters to buy airtime using stolen credit card details, and go undetected for up to a month.

A spokeswoman for Cellnet said: "We have the highest level of security possible for this type of system. All the other networks are experiencing similar problems: the only difference is that we use an automated system for ease of use. In fact, Vodafone is said to be switching to the same system."

The only way of detecting the misuse of credit card information is by the owner checking their credit card statements.

The Cellnet spokeswoman said that despite attempts to strike a balance between security and simplicity of use, "there will always be security problems with any credit card system." She added that the system is backed by the UK banking industry and the firm will reimburse any victims of the pre-pay fraud.

New security measures are being added to the system over the next two months, details of which have not been disclosed.