For Immediate Release

Get Ready for "Wireless Code Red" in 2004

Bluefire Security Predicts First Large-scale Attack on Wireless Networks

Baltimore, MD January 12, 2004 — Citing the increased computing power and connectivity of handheld devices, Bluefire Security TechnologiesTM today predicted that 2004 will see more exploits of wireless networks, including a widespread Code Red-like worm that will cause major disruption of Wi-Fi networks and/or carrier data services. Though the industry will see more wireless security breaches, the adoption rates of wireless networks will continue to rise quickly, as organizations seek the rewards of improved connectivity and new enterprise-class applications for mobile devices.

"The improved capabilities of wireless devices and networks will result in widespread enterprise adoption of mobile technology in the upcoming year, especially in health care, retail and government," said Tom Goodman, vice president of operations for Bluefire Security Technologies. "Though we expect to see an increase in the number of wireless security attacks, this should not be an obstacle to enterprise mobility as wireless computing can be done securely with the right risk management approach and application of security technologies."

In addition to the rise in wireless attacks and exploits, Bluefire Security predicts that 2004 will bring:* Numerous high-profile cases of confidential information being accidentally disclosed through the theft, loss or inadvertent misuse of handheld devices.

• A significant rise in the adoption of enterprise wireless technology as the major carriers continue to expand their offerings and roll out new technology, such as GSM Evolution (EDGE) wireless networks.
• A movement toward Wide Area Networks (WAN) in the enterprise as it becomes a lower cost and more convenient solution than Wi-Fi and organizations begin to benefit from integrated voice and data services.
• A growth in the number of enterprise-class applications being developed for handheld devices. 2004 will see numerous customer relationship management (CRM), telemedicine and law enforcement applications being designed for, and used on, mobile devices.

"As corporations seek advantages of mobility by leveraging new wireless network technology and more extensive mobile application offerings, they will be sharing increasingly valuable information over their wireless networks. Unfortunately, while this offers numerous business benefits for the enterprise, it also makes wireless networks attractive targets for hackers," said Goodman. "In light of this, it is important that organizations act quickly to implement mobile security policies for their wireless use so that they can be sure that their information is protected in 2004 and beyond."