Cell C Modem and Linux?

[ponder]

General question.
I have never used one of these and want to ask what the security is like. I am currently behind a router on Ubuntu and CentOS.
How easily can these things be hacked and would you have any qualms doing say internet banking using the USB modem ?
Sorry for potentially stupid question, but I know that I know nothing.

No different to using ADSL etc. Your banks website should enforce upper layer security protocols like SSL etc. which is handled by your browser.

 

[ocky]

Thanks ponder, was just wondering due to no WPA2 etc.

http://www.cvedetails.com/vulnerability-list/vendor_id-5979/Huawei.html

 

[ginggs]

Hi - I'm using the Cell C speedstick (7.2Mbps) with Ubuntu 10.10 - works lekker lekker but how do I check my usage? Can you do it on Cell C website?

You can use gsm-ussd to send the *101# USSD command to check your balance, see here.

 

[ginggs]

Thanks ponder, was just wondering due to no WPA2 etc.

WPA2 applies to WiFi, not GSM/UMTS.

Most network operators block incoming ports for GSM/UMTS users, so you're probably safer than being on ADSL.

 

[ocky]

WPA2 applies to WiFi, not GSM/UMTS.

Most network operators block incoming ports for GSM/UMTS users, so you're probably safer than being on ADSL.

Yup, I know. HSPA+ uses the Kasumi cypher afaik. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/KASUMI_(block_cipher)#Cryptanalysis

My hatred for cell phones means that I know nothing, short of the occasional phonecall/SMS all on prepaid.
I don't have the faintest idea how to get more data after the Cell C offer has expired and what about airtime ?
In the FAQ I find this confusing:-
Are Prepaid data bundles available?
Not at the moment, but Cell C is planning to make these available in the future.

So, whilst being a Linux Ubuntu dual boot and CentOS user, I am clueless when it comes to mobile
internet, but I do want to give it a go with the Cell C offer as backup to ADSL. Should be plug and play
from what I see albeit sans connection manager software.