Subtle Energy Transmission: The Basis of Latent Influence
The importance of the effects of keeping good or bad company is well known.
Apart from the information, suggestions and support given by a friend, the latent
influence of his/her personality plays a major role in creating positive or
negative effects. The influence of one's personality, though subtle in nature, is as
true as the effects of- warmth around the fire-place, fragrance around flowers or
irritation caused by the burning of red chilly powder etc.
Persons with strong character, will-power and bright and alert mind have a
natural influence over their surroundings. The subtle effects of their vital energy
are also found to exist in the material things being used by them.
Small children, because of the lesser use of their vital energy, are more prone to
the positive (or negative) effects of the good (or bad) personalities of their elders.
The biomagnetism of the men and women of the some age group have natural
mutual attraction. Sexual intercourse accounts for a loss in the vital energy of
both. The percentage of this loss is more in the men because of the
'repulsive'(outwardly oriented) nature of their biomagnetism as compared to the
'attractive'(inward) biomagnetic force of their opposite sex. The sexual thoughts
and feelings also cause a harmful effect as far as loss of vital energy and its subtle
strength is considered. Control over such thoughts and acts are therefore
necessary for the proper development and utilization of vital energy in spiritual
practices.
Great personalities, truly endowed with spiritual powers, can even influence the
innerself of others. They carefully donate their vital energy to the deserving
devotees and bring miraculous changes in the latter’s personality for the
upliftment and welfare of many others thereby. The powers of the blessings of
ancient Indian sages and their abilities of Saktipat and Anudan signify the
instances of the determined transmission of their 'all-powerful' vital strength.
The development of the glorious personalities like Swami Vivekananda, Swami
Dayananda Saraswati, King Chandragupta and King Shivaji by their spiritual
Masters are the living examples of the above mentioned subtle energy
transmission process.
Many examples of prophecy, premonitions, intuitions, clues in dream etc, are
available in modern world history; which have resulted in miraculous escape
from natural hazards, important scientific discoveries and resolution of
complicated criminal cases etc. in a significantly large number of incidents. These
also are manifestations of subtle reception and transmission of the universal vital
energy in human body, mind and consciousness.
The spiritual practices associated with the processes of subtle energy transfer
(Saktipat) are described in detail in the ancient Indian scripture viz
Yogacudamani, Tejbindupnisada, Gyan Sankalini Tatva, Hathyoga Sanhita, Rudra
Yamal Yantra, Yoga Kunkalyopnisada and Sarda Tilak etc.
May the modern science carry out research in the light of these pieces of spiritual
knowledge to make a fruitful use of the immense energy existing in every human
being towards global welfare and the upliftment of humanity.
गुरुवार, 20 सितंबर 2007
Five Important Levels of the Human Consciousness
Five Important Levels of the Human Consciousness
The science of spirituality deals with all the subtle and physical level of the
conscious body. Experts of this science can perform supernatural experiments on
the physical body. They experience more and more blissfulness as they realize
higher and subtler levels of consciousness. The five important levels of the
human consciousness are: (i) the physical consciousness (Annamaya Kos) which is
manifested in the activities of hormones and enzymes etc., (ii) the awakened
consciousness(Pranmaya Kos) which is active in the form of bioelectricity, (iii) the
psychic consciousness(Manomaya kos) which gives rise to biomagnetism, (iv) the
intuitive consciousness(Vigyanmaya Kos) and (v) the beatitudinous
consciousness(Anandmaya Kos) which subtly exists in the Reticular Activating
System in the Cortical Nuclei.
The human body is a complex ensemble of interlinked systems of over 75x10
cells. A large number of independent 'powers' govern the activities of its various
constituents. The 'power' behind the biochemical activities of the nucleic acids,
genes and chromosomes in reproduction and other genetically controlled
processes is an example of such creative powers. The defensive power of the
body is manifested by the immune response. The vital power linked with
bioelectricity and biomagnetism is also amongst the most important subtle
powers existing in our body. Due to their manifestation in the form of
(bio)physico-chemical activities, the presence and extent of these powers can
easily be measured by the technique like tissue histology, ECG, EMG, ELISA etc.
The subtle effects of these vital powers are tremendous. These can be awakened
and experienced by certain spiritual practices.
The spiritual Sadhana processes of Kundalini Jagaran, Satcakra Bedhan, Yogatrayi,
Panckosa Jagaran, Suksmikaran etc. are similar with respect to the fact that they are
aimed at the controlled awakening of the subtle levels of consciousness in the
human body. The great knowledge of subtlization of the consciousness and the
details of related spiritual practices are described in the ancient Indian scriptures.
Experiments in this direction should be performed under proper guidance and
only after an in-depth understanding of this interesting but difficult field of
knowledge. We shall focus here on the manifestations of the subtle consciousness
in terms of the controlling of neuro-hormonal processes.
Hormonal activities begin right at the level of embryogenesis. Even before
embryogenesis the electrical energy necessary for stability of the sperm is
'supplied' by the mother's hormone. The transmission of Sanskaras via genetic
information also takes place with the help of these hormones which ultimately
govern the development of the body and the personality as a whole.
When the embryo after developing into a complete body enters the outer ionic
environment, then its protection from the harmful interactions and appropriate
control of its adaptive processes is also governed by specific hormonal activities.
The secretion of hormones is controlled by the subtle consciousness existing in
the brain. The seven glands, namely, the Pineal, Pituitary, Thyroid, Parathyroid,
Thymus, Adrenal and Gonads, spread from top to bottom within the body and
control all the biochemical activities during its lifetime by the secretion of various
hormones. The secretion of hormones inside a human body also maintains the
psychology of the corresponding person. The sexual abilities and temperament
of a person depends largely on the levels of specific hormonal activities in
his/her body.
The simple Yoga practices of Bandh, Mudra, Asanas etc. along with controlled diet
and austere life-style establish control over various hormonal activities. The
regulation of hormonal secretion thereby maintains harmony between different
parts of body and various physiological and mental activities and emotions
which is essential for practicing the higher levels of spiritual upliftment.
Astrochemists and Cosmobiologists have found that individual consciousness is
subtly linked to the universal consciousness and that this mutual relationship is
manifested in the natural hormonal secretion processes within the body. They
describe about the direct effect of the Sun upon the Pineal gland, Moon upon the
Pituitary, Mars upon Parathyroid, Jupiter upon Adrenal, and Venus upon
Gonads. Further scientific investigations into these relationships would help
understand the Indian scriptures which describe the spiritual modes of receiving
desired level of universal consciousness.
Bioelectricity and the subtle vital system (called the etheric double in
Theosophy) are interlinked. Every cell, tissue and organ of our body is charged
with bioelectricity. Control of the cellular membrane potentials by the sodium-
potassium pump, ADP/ATP systems and cyclic AMP etc. are examples of the
electrochemical reactions responsible for the intercellular communications and
hence for the regulation of various physiological/biological activities in our
body.
A couple of decade ago, Dr. Fred Wales had studied the electrical metabolism.
An analysis of his results shows that during respiration every living being
inhales negative ions which are dispersed throughout the body electrifying its
constituent units. These ions are transmitted back into the surrounding
atmosphere through the skin pores - creating and electrical circuit thereby.
Modern instruments have helped in a detailed study of this process of absorption
(respectively excretion) of the negative ions by the lungs (respectively the skin
pores). With the help of Pezo, Pyro and Metabolic electricity every human body
can be visualized as a bioelectric system or a living power house.
Many tissues in our body function like specific crystals and work like
transducers in solid state physics. Every carbon atom in this body has a capacity
to store electrical energy. It is only in some exceptional situations, that the static
electrical storage of the vital system is found to be suddenly activated. However,
the Sadhana processes of spirituality make it possible to utilize this enormous
electrical potential for desired effects. The immediate and simple manifestations
of these effects are seen in the form of development of an energetic, enthusiastic
and bright personality. The resistance power of the body also depends on this
bioelectricity. This power can be enhanced by the Hansyoga of the Sauham
Sadhana. Even the voice and speech of such Yogis can influence their
surroundings by the latent bioelectric effects.
Biomagnetism and bioelectricity are the powers activated in different states
within the body. As mentioned earlier, the formation of the Aura, Psychic
healing, Vital passing, Gazing, Hypnotism and Saktipat (transfer of spiritual
energy by spiritually more powerful persons into devotees) etc. are the processes
related to biomagnetism which are often practiced by the Yogis. The magnetic
11
field around the heart in normal human beings is found to be around 5x10
tesla
units when measured by a magnetocardiogram. Sensitive instruments like a
Squeed can be used to measure the minute changes in the magnetic current with
respect to the flow of vital energy. These sophisticated instruments have also
made it possible to measure the magnetic field around the two poles (the Sahasrar
and the Muladhar) of the dipole magnet in the spinal cord (Shusumna).
With the advancement of EMG technique it is now possible to measure the D.C.
potential around the upper pole (situated at the top of the central brain) of the
above biomagnet. Different procedures of meditations are described in the
ancient Indian Philosophy for the purpose of enhancing the biomagnetism and
thereby awakening the Mind cell (the psychic consciousness). Dedicated learning
and persistent spiritual practices enable true saints and seers to attain a
supernatural memory, intellect and discretion.
Modern science has just begun to realize the importance of neurohormonal
secretions in creating supernatural talents as described in detail in the ancient
Indian scriptures. As a dedicated practitioner (Sadhak) of spiritual training
reaches higher levels of spiritual realizations, the subtler forms of his/her
consciousness awaken giving rise to certain very specific neurohormonal
secretions. Awakening of the intuitive consciousness (Vigyanmaya kosa) is one
such spiritual practice.
Some recent scientific experiments on neurohormonal secretions indicate that the
devotional practice of meditation with purity of thoughts by austere persons
results in the secretion of various hormones like Dopamine, Acetylcholine,
GABA, Serotonin, Endorphines and Encephalines etc. which in turn increase the
internal happiness, concentration, memory, emotional maturity and overall body
energy in such persons. Different, physical forms (Mudras) of Yoga along with
meditation help faster attainment of the desired effects. Some well known
supernatural powers normally attained during the spiritual practices of
awakening of the intuitive consciousness are telepathy, prophecy, capabilities of
converting one form of matter into another etc. It should be noted that a true seer
never uses these powers for a mere display of magic aimed at gaining popularity,
instead, he/she makes a careful and timely utilization of such powers only for
the welfare of all living beings.
The highest level of consciousness, namely, the beatitudinous consciousness
subtly exists in the reticular activation system (RAC) and the cortical nuclei in
the human brain. Ancient Indian scriptures mention a great deal about this
ultimate level of human consciousness. In the present era, a little but significant
knowledge about the RCA has come into light with the help of advanced medical
electronics. Histopathological analysis of the electrical stimulation of this system
by external field has shown that the cortical nuclei help awaken subtle
consciousness under the controlled and continuous stimulation given by the
RCA through thalamic projection. Deep meditation during the higher level of
spiritual practices (e.g. Nididdhyasan, Prtyahar, and Samadhi) is found to create
such effects which help link the individual consciousness with the universal
consciousness through the subtle Meson and Neutrino particles.
It may be noted that, in order to make the scientific explanation comprehensive,
only some simple aspects of the human consciousness are described here. A
complete analysis of the human consciousness would require further
advancement of scientific research before the latter can attempt investigations in
this regard. The final stage (Ayamatma Brahm) of the spiritual practice (Sadhana)
of awakening of the beatitudinous consciousness (Anandmaya Kosa) cannot be
described in words. Its physical realization or an analysis of the experiences of its
attainment is beyond the reach of modern science.
The science of spirituality deals with all the subtle and physical level of the
conscious body. Experts of this science can perform supernatural experiments on
the physical body. They experience more and more blissfulness as they realize
higher and subtler levels of consciousness. The five important levels of the
human consciousness are: (i) the physical consciousness (Annamaya Kos) which is
manifested in the activities of hormones and enzymes etc., (ii) the awakened
consciousness(Pranmaya Kos) which is active in the form of bioelectricity, (iii) the
psychic consciousness(Manomaya kos) which gives rise to biomagnetism, (iv) the
intuitive consciousness(Vigyanmaya Kos) and (v) the beatitudinous
consciousness(Anandmaya Kos) which subtly exists in the Reticular Activating
System in the Cortical Nuclei.
The human body is a complex ensemble of interlinked systems of over 75x10
cells. A large number of independent 'powers' govern the activities of its various
constituents. The 'power' behind the biochemical activities of the nucleic acids,
genes and chromosomes in reproduction and other genetically controlled
processes is an example of such creative powers. The defensive power of the
body is manifested by the immune response. The vital power linked with
bioelectricity and biomagnetism is also amongst the most important subtle
powers existing in our body. Due to their manifestation in the form of
(bio)physico-chemical activities, the presence and extent of these powers can
easily be measured by the technique like tissue histology, ECG, EMG, ELISA etc.
The subtle effects of these vital powers are tremendous. These can be awakened
and experienced by certain spiritual practices.
The spiritual Sadhana processes of Kundalini Jagaran, Satcakra Bedhan, Yogatrayi,
Panckosa Jagaran, Suksmikaran etc. are similar with respect to the fact that they are
aimed at the controlled awakening of the subtle levels of consciousness in the
human body. The great knowledge of subtlization of the consciousness and the
details of related spiritual practices are described in the ancient Indian scriptures.
Experiments in this direction should be performed under proper guidance and
only after an in-depth understanding of this interesting but difficult field of
knowledge. We shall focus here on the manifestations of the subtle consciousness
in terms of the controlling of neuro-hormonal processes.
Hormonal activities begin right at the level of embryogenesis. Even before
embryogenesis the electrical energy necessary for stability of the sperm is
'supplied' by the mother's hormone. The transmission of Sanskaras via genetic
information also takes place with the help of these hormones which ultimately
govern the development of the body and the personality as a whole.
When the embryo after developing into a complete body enters the outer ionic
environment, then its protection from the harmful interactions and appropriate
control of its adaptive processes is also governed by specific hormonal activities.
The secretion of hormones is controlled by the subtle consciousness existing in
the brain. The seven glands, namely, the Pineal, Pituitary, Thyroid, Parathyroid,
Thymus, Adrenal and Gonads, spread from top to bottom within the body and
control all the biochemical activities during its lifetime by the secretion of various
hormones. The secretion of hormones inside a human body also maintains the
psychology of the corresponding person. The sexual abilities and temperament
of a person depends largely on the levels of specific hormonal activities in
his/her body.
The simple Yoga practices of Bandh, Mudra, Asanas etc. along with controlled diet
and austere life-style establish control over various hormonal activities. The
regulation of hormonal secretion thereby maintains harmony between different
parts of body and various physiological and mental activities and emotions
which is essential for practicing the higher levels of spiritual upliftment.
Astrochemists and Cosmobiologists have found that individual consciousness is
subtly linked to the universal consciousness and that this mutual relationship is
manifested in the natural hormonal secretion processes within the body. They
describe about the direct effect of the Sun upon the Pineal gland, Moon upon the
Pituitary, Mars upon Parathyroid, Jupiter upon Adrenal, and Venus upon
Gonads. Further scientific investigations into these relationships would help
understand the Indian scriptures which describe the spiritual modes of receiving
desired level of universal consciousness.
Bioelectricity and the subtle vital system (called the etheric double in
Theosophy) are interlinked. Every cell, tissue and organ of our body is charged
with bioelectricity. Control of the cellular membrane potentials by the sodium-
potassium pump, ADP/ATP systems and cyclic AMP etc. are examples of the
electrochemical reactions responsible for the intercellular communications and
hence for the regulation of various physiological/biological activities in our
body.
A couple of decade ago, Dr. Fred Wales had studied the electrical metabolism.
An analysis of his results shows that during respiration every living being
inhales negative ions which are dispersed throughout the body electrifying its
constituent units. These ions are transmitted back into the surrounding
atmosphere through the skin pores - creating and electrical circuit thereby.
Modern instruments have helped in a detailed study of this process of absorption
(respectively excretion) of the negative ions by the lungs (respectively the skin
pores). With the help of Pezo, Pyro and Metabolic electricity every human body
can be visualized as a bioelectric system or a living power house.
Many tissues in our body function like specific crystals and work like
transducers in solid state physics. Every carbon atom in this body has a capacity
to store electrical energy. It is only in some exceptional situations, that the static
electrical storage of the vital system is found to be suddenly activated. However,
the Sadhana processes of spirituality make it possible to utilize this enormous
electrical potential for desired effects. The immediate and simple manifestations
of these effects are seen in the form of development of an energetic, enthusiastic
and bright personality. The resistance power of the body also depends on this
bioelectricity. This power can be enhanced by the Hansyoga of the Sauham
Sadhana. Even the voice and speech of such Yogis can influence their
surroundings by the latent bioelectric effects.
Biomagnetism and bioelectricity are the powers activated in different states
within the body. As mentioned earlier, the formation of the Aura, Psychic
healing, Vital passing, Gazing, Hypnotism and Saktipat (transfer of spiritual
energy by spiritually more powerful persons into devotees) etc. are the processes
related to biomagnetism which are often practiced by the Yogis. The magnetic
11
field around the heart in normal human beings is found to be around 5x10
tesla
units when measured by a magnetocardiogram. Sensitive instruments like a
Squeed can be used to measure the minute changes in the magnetic current with
respect to the flow of vital energy. These sophisticated instruments have also
made it possible to measure the magnetic field around the two poles (the Sahasrar
and the Muladhar) of the dipole magnet in the spinal cord (Shusumna).
With the advancement of EMG technique it is now possible to measure the D.C.
potential around the upper pole (situated at the top of the central brain) of the
above biomagnet. Different procedures of meditations are described in the
ancient Indian Philosophy for the purpose of enhancing the biomagnetism and
thereby awakening the Mind cell (the psychic consciousness). Dedicated learning
and persistent spiritual practices enable true saints and seers to attain a
supernatural memory, intellect and discretion.
Modern science has just begun to realize the importance of neurohormonal
secretions in creating supernatural talents as described in detail in the ancient
Indian scriptures. As a dedicated practitioner (Sadhak) of spiritual training
reaches higher levels of spiritual realizations, the subtler forms of his/her
consciousness awaken giving rise to certain very specific neurohormonal
secretions. Awakening of the intuitive consciousness (Vigyanmaya kosa) is one
such spiritual practice.
Some recent scientific experiments on neurohormonal secretions indicate that the
devotional practice of meditation with purity of thoughts by austere persons
results in the secretion of various hormones like Dopamine, Acetylcholine,
GABA, Serotonin, Endorphines and Encephalines etc. which in turn increase the
internal happiness, concentration, memory, emotional maturity and overall body
energy in such persons. Different, physical forms (Mudras) of Yoga along with
meditation help faster attainment of the desired effects. Some well known
supernatural powers normally attained during the spiritual practices of
awakening of the intuitive consciousness are telepathy, prophecy, capabilities of
converting one form of matter into another etc. It should be noted that a true seer
never uses these powers for a mere display of magic aimed at gaining popularity,
instead, he/she makes a careful and timely utilization of such powers only for
the welfare of all living beings.
The highest level of consciousness, namely, the beatitudinous consciousness
subtly exists in the reticular activation system (RAC) and the cortical nuclei in
the human brain. Ancient Indian scriptures mention a great deal about this
ultimate level of human consciousness. In the present era, a little but significant
knowledge about the RCA has come into light with the help of advanced medical
electronics. Histopathological analysis of the electrical stimulation of this system
by external field has shown that the cortical nuclei help awaken subtle
consciousness under the controlled and continuous stimulation given by the
RCA through thalamic projection. Deep meditation during the higher level of
spiritual practices (e.g. Nididdhyasan, Prtyahar, and Samadhi) is found to create
such effects which help link the individual consciousness with the universal
consciousness through the subtle Meson and Neutrino particles.
It may be noted that, in order to make the scientific explanation comprehensive,
only some simple aspects of the human consciousness are described here. A
complete analysis of the human consciousness would require further
advancement of scientific research before the latter can attempt investigations in
this regard. The final stage (Ayamatma Brahm) of the spiritual practice (Sadhana)
of awakening of the beatitudinous consciousness (Anandmaya Kosa) cannot be
described in words. Its physical realization or an analysis of the experiences of its
attainment is beyond the reach of modern science.
Scientific Analysis of the Subtle Aspects of Bio-energy
Scientific Analysis of the Subtle Aspects of Bio-energy
The fundamental role of energy in various functions of a living body is
extensively studied by modern scientists. However, the subtle aspects of vital
energy in the form of Parapsychological manifestation, supernatural intelligence
etc. still remains unknown. Existence and importance of the subtle levels of bio-
energy is accepted by the scientists because of the observed effects. What needs
to be investigated now are the scientific principles and methods of
experimentation on subtle phenomenon. It is significant to note that a large
number of scientists are carrying out research in this direction.
One of the much-known Parapsychological abilities is the psychic healing. The
existence of this power in some people has been proved scientifically by a series
of experiments and investigations in the western countries over the past three
decades. It is believed that in this process the psychic healer transmits some part
of his extraordinary vital energy to the patient by touch.
Oriental philosophy describes that this Parapsychological ability is one part of
the various powers attainable by spiritual practices that enhances the vital
energy. It is said that the person endowed with this ability can also affect the
vital energy and subtle conscious levels of others apart from creating visible
physical effects on matter.
Due to the limitations of modern equipments scientists have so far been able to
investigate only some physical effects of the ability to do psyche healing. Dr.
Bernard Grade of the McGill University, Montreal has shown that the growth of
barley seeds increases significantly when it is watered by people who possess the
above ability. A mere touch of the water container, by such people was found
sufficient to make the water powerful enough to treat some patients who drank it
later. Similar experiments when performed by dull and sadistic persons had
shown the existence of opposite and negative effects. Dr. Grade described it as an
X-factor of the vital energy which exists in every human being but whose level
varies with the psychosomatic state of a person. In his project report (published
in JASP 1965) entitled 'Some biological effects of laying on hands' Dr. Grade
stated that light waves existing in the aura around the fingers of the psychic
healers as recorded by Dr. Kirliyan on celluloid plates are nothing but the waves
of X-energy.
Recent investigations of Dr. Thelma Moss of UCLA (USA) and Dr. Tiller of
Stanford (USA) are also focused on further analyses of the above X-energy and
related Parapsychological powers. Dr. Edward Brem of Willington, Delaware
(USA) had analyzed the chemistry of water after the immersion of the fingers of
a psychic healer in it. His results showed 97.04% hydrogen bonds in it as
compared to the 100% binding in ordinary water. This, along with the
observations in the changes of surface tension further supported the idea that
there is an emission of electrical energy through the healers' fingers. Dr. Miller's
experiments (in context of cloud chambers) with Fisher model Transiometer had
confirmed the above implications.
A research article published in Science Digest (May, 1982) presents important
details in psychic energy. Dr. Elmer Green, a Biopsychologist at the Maninger
Foundations, Kansas (USA) and Dr. C. Norman of the Pain and Health
Rehabilitation Center, Wisconsin (USA) have studied some Parasychological
effects of vital energy on the cardiac rhythms, ECG, body-temperature, the
resistance power of the skin and the viability of the WBCs in large number of
chronic patients. Over 80% of the patients suffering from different kinds of pains
were totally cured and encouraging responses were observed in the other
patients too. Experiences of those patients indicate that most of them felt an
electric current or an energy spark flowing through their body while being
touched by the doctors (vital energy healers).
Vital energy also plays a fundamental role in faith-healing and in strengthening
of the will-power. Normally, great personalities have an excessive storage of this
energy. This energy exists in every human being and can be increased by its
controlled use and by dedicated spiritual practices. Indian sages of yore used to
transfer parts of their vital energy into deserving devotees by the process of Pran
Dan and Saktipat. The ancient scriptures on Yoga Tantra describe these processes
in detail.
In the modern age, the importance of vital energy was popularized by the
Austrian Dr. Francis Antoniars Mesmer. He worked hard to make use of the
bioelectricity in his body for the treatment of some physical and psychological
diseases. His experiments laid the foundation of Mesmerism which was further
developed into the technique of Hypnotism by Mr. C. Uzigar. Hypnotism was
initially used for getting involved in artificial deep sleep. The French doctor, Le
Fountain and Braid et al investigated some other uses of biomagnetism
(hypnotism) in Medicine. A series of advanced scientific experiments on these
applications gave birth to new branch of science called Electrobiology. The
investigations of an American, Dr. Darling, and a French, Dr. Durand de Grasse,
at New Orleans (USA) are amongst the most significant recent contributors in
this area. Several international organization like - The School of Nancy, The
School of Charkot and The School of Mesmerism are also engaged in research on
therapies based on hypnotism.
Noted scientist, Dr. M. O. Male and Dr. J. M. Wembrel have cited a large number
of evidential case-studies in support of the above therapies. In her popular book
entitled 'Emotions and Bodily Changes' Mrs. H. F. Dunbar writes that hypnotism
could be effectively used in the treatment of Hysteria, Phobia, Stammering and
some other Neuronic diseases. Another doctor, Dr. Win also argues in favor of
the use of hypnotism in curing of various psychological disorders.
Dr Arnold Fast of USA had successfully tried hypnotizing his patients instead of
giving them anesthesia during a large number of minor surgical operations.
Many dental surgeons also followed his technique and found it less risky and
convenient. Dr. Bernard Levinson also proved the scientific utilization of
hypnotism as a substitute for anesthesia during a large number of surgical
operations at Tara hospital in Johannesburg (South Africa). Further, the scientific
experiments of Dr. James Bride confirmed that the bioelectricity in the human
body is not only sufficient for various physiological functions but it could also be
utilized for the development of many supernatural activities.
Dr. Van Otizer, Dr. J. Rafler, Dr. Schultz and Dr. Mar are some of the most
famous Gynaecologists who successfully experimented on the use of hypnotism
in painless deliveries. Dr. Win argues that effectiveness of hypnotism increases
with the faith of the patient in the doctor. Dr. Rachen Bake, a bioelectricity expert
from Germany has described the vital energy as a form of fire that is abundant
near the face and constitutes the 'healing aura'.
The investigations of the reputed scientists like Dr. Modatriuz and Count
Puligav show that the medicinal uses of vital energy are just glimpses of the
enormous capabilities of its immense power; this energy could also be utilized
for personality development, awakening of latent talents and the upliftment of
attitudes of all human beings. Advancement of scientific investigations in this
direction would once again serve to prove the authenticity of the spiritual science
of vital energy as described in ancient Indian literature.
The fundamental role of energy in various functions of a living body is
extensively studied by modern scientists. However, the subtle aspects of vital
energy in the form of Parapsychological manifestation, supernatural intelligence
etc. still remains unknown. Existence and importance of the subtle levels of bio-
energy is accepted by the scientists because of the observed effects. What needs
to be investigated now are the scientific principles and methods of
experimentation on subtle phenomenon. It is significant to note that a large
number of scientists are carrying out research in this direction.
One of the much-known Parapsychological abilities is the psychic healing. The
existence of this power in some people has been proved scientifically by a series
of experiments and investigations in the western countries over the past three
decades. It is believed that in this process the psychic healer transmits some part
of his extraordinary vital energy to the patient by touch.
Oriental philosophy describes that this Parapsychological ability is one part of
the various powers attainable by spiritual practices that enhances the vital
energy. It is said that the person endowed with this ability can also affect the
vital energy and subtle conscious levels of others apart from creating visible
physical effects on matter.
Due to the limitations of modern equipments scientists have so far been able to
investigate only some physical effects of the ability to do psyche healing. Dr.
Bernard Grade of the McGill University, Montreal has shown that the growth of
barley seeds increases significantly when it is watered by people who possess the
above ability. A mere touch of the water container, by such people was found
sufficient to make the water powerful enough to treat some patients who drank it
later. Similar experiments when performed by dull and sadistic persons had
shown the existence of opposite and negative effects. Dr. Grade described it as an
X-factor of the vital energy which exists in every human being but whose level
varies with the psychosomatic state of a person. In his project report (published
in JASP 1965) entitled 'Some biological effects of laying on hands' Dr. Grade
stated that light waves existing in the aura around the fingers of the psychic
healers as recorded by Dr. Kirliyan on celluloid plates are nothing but the waves
of X-energy.
Recent investigations of Dr. Thelma Moss of UCLA (USA) and Dr. Tiller of
Stanford (USA) are also focused on further analyses of the above X-energy and
related Parapsychological powers. Dr. Edward Brem of Willington, Delaware
(USA) had analyzed the chemistry of water after the immersion of the fingers of
a psychic healer in it. His results showed 97.04% hydrogen bonds in it as
compared to the 100% binding in ordinary water. This, along with the
observations in the changes of surface tension further supported the idea that
there is an emission of electrical energy through the healers' fingers. Dr. Miller's
experiments (in context of cloud chambers) with Fisher model Transiometer had
confirmed the above implications.
A research article published in Science Digest (May, 1982) presents important
details in psychic energy. Dr. Elmer Green, a Biopsychologist at the Maninger
Foundations, Kansas (USA) and Dr. C. Norman of the Pain and Health
Rehabilitation Center, Wisconsin (USA) have studied some Parasychological
effects of vital energy on the cardiac rhythms, ECG, body-temperature, the
resistance power of the skin and the viability of the WBCs in large number of
chronic patients. Over 80% of the patients suffering from different kinds of pains
were totally cured and encouraging responses were observed in the other
patients too. Experiences of those patients indicate that most of them felt an
electric current or an energy spark flowing through their body while being
touched by the doctors (vital energy healers).
Vital energy also plays a fundamental role in faith-healing and in strengthening
of the will-power. Normally, great personalities have an excessive storage of this
energy. This energy exists in every human being and can be increased by its
controlled use and by dedicated spiritual practices. Indian sages of yore used to
transfer parts of their vital energy into deserving devotees by the process of Pran
Dan and Saktipat. The ancient scriptures on Yoga Tantra describe these processes
in detail.
In the modern age, the importance of vital energy was popularized by the
Austrian Dr. Francis Antoniars Mesmer. He worked hard to make use of the
bioelectricity in his body for the treatment of some physical and psychological
diseases. His experiments laid the foundation of Mesmerism which was further
developed into the technique of Hypnotism by Mr. C. Uzigar. Hypnotism was
initially used for getting involved in artificial deep sleep. The French doctor, Le
Fountain and Braid et al investigated some other uses of biomagnetism
(hypnotism) in Medicine. A series of advanced scientific experiments on these
applications gave birth to new branch of science called Electrobiology. The
investigations of an American, Dr. Darling, and a French, Dr. Durand de Grasse,
at New Orleans (USA) are amongst the most significant recent contributors in
this area. Several international organization like - The School of Nancy, The
School of Charkot and The School of Mesmerism are also engaged in research on
therapies based on hypnotism.
Noted scientist, Dr. M. O. Male and Dr. J. M. Wembrel have cited a large number
of evidential case-studies in support of the above therapies. In her popular book
entitled 'Emotions and Bodily Changes' Mrs. H. F. Dunbar writes that hypnotism
could be effectively used in the treatment of Hysteria, Phobia, Stammering and
some other Neuronic diseases. Another doctor, Dr. Win also argues in favor of
the use of hypnotism in curing of various psychological disorders.
Dr Arnold Fast of USA had successfully tried hypnotizing his patients instead of
giving them anesthesia during a large number of minor surgical operations.
Many dental surgeons also followed his technique and found it less risky and
convenient. Dr. Bernard Levinson also proved the scientific utilization of
hypnotism as a substitute for anesthesia during a large number of surgical
operations at Tara hospital in Johannesburg (South Africa). Further, the scientific
experiments of Dr. James Bride confirmed that the bioelectricity in the human
body is not only sufficient for various physiological functions but it could also be
utilized for the development of many supernatural activities.
Dr. Van Otizer, Dr. J. Rafler, Dr. Schultz and Dr. Mar are some of the most
famous Gynaecologists who successfully experimented on the use of hypnotism
in painless deliveries. Dr. Win argues that effectiveness of hypnotism increases
with the faith of the patient in the doctor. Dr. Rachen Bake, a bioelectricity expert
from Germany has described the vital energy as a form of fire that is abundant
near the face and constitutes the 'healing aura'.
The investigations of the reputed scientists like Dr. Modatriuz and Count
Puligav show that the medicinal uses of vital energy are just glimpses of the
enormous capabilities of its immense power; this energy could also be utilized
for personality development, awakening of latent talents and the upliftment of
attitudes of all human beings. Advancement of scientific investigations in this
direction would once again serve to prove the authenticity of the spiritual science
of vital energy as described in ancient Indian literature.
The Subtle Science of the Human Body
The Subtle Science of the Human Body
An unlimited resource of electrical energy forms the basis of Nature. The
discovery of this fact and persistent efforts to utilize this immense power of
Nature has been of great help in scientific and technological developments of our
age.
The space between the earth's strata and the Ionosphere contains positive
5
potential of about 3x 10
volts while the earth's interior contains an equivalent
amount of negative charge. On an average, every living organism on the earth
bears a subtle electrical pressure of the order of 5 volts/meter created by the lowest
layer of the ionosphere situated about 60 Km above the earth's surface. This
potential generates an electric current in the human body which is a good
conductor of electricity. The measurements by sophisticated instruments have
-16 2
amp.sec/cm . At a first
shown that this current is of the magnitude of 10
glance, this small quantity of current may appear to be negligible. Nevertheless,
its effects are incredible because of the existence of some subtle power centers in
the human-body as described below.
The scientific exposition presented here is focused on the subtle power centers in
the human-body whose existence is manifested in the forms of bioelectricity and
biomagnetism. The subtle bioelectrical energy provides the vital force for the
body's functioning and governs mental activities. Human body simulates an
'ocean' consisting of infinitely many 'rivers' in the form of blood vessels and the
nerves. Each respiratory cycle gives rise to high and low tides of currents in this
'Ocean' at an average rate of about 15 cycles/minute. The technique of electric
power generation from the tides and cyclones in the sea water is well known
today. However, very few people know that the electric ions inhaled from the
surrounding atmosphere during each respiratory cycle give rise to a powerful
electrical flow in our body. The ancient Indian sages (Rishis) had an in-depth
knowledge about this current and its utilization for higher purposes.
Our body can be represented as a grand powerhouse. The brain and the heart
work respectively like the generator and the transmitter of the bioelectricity
(ionic currents) in the body. The bioelectric energy is distributed amongst the
body’s cells as per their functional requirements. This electricity, in conjunction
with the subtle (vital) energy of a person, generates biomagnetism which in turn
manifests itself in the aura (halo of light) around one's body or in the region of
attraction in one's personality.
It should be noted here that biomagnetism is a conscious power which can affect
the material as well as the conscious forms existing in Nature. If this subtle vital
energy could ever be measured as electromagnetic energy, it would turn out to
be the greatest gift from the Creator of the Universe endowed upon the human
life. The saints of yore had found that biomagnetism can be experienced in
spiritual people whilst communicating with them in their physical presence or in
the state of deep meditation. Supernatural abilities can be developed by
controlling the use of this energy through different spiritual practices. This
energy then helps in communicating with the subtle world of consciousness
pervading the entire universe.
Human consciousness is a part of the universal divine consciousness and the
extent of the manifestation of the latter via sentiments, thoughts and deeds of the
former depends on the level of above mentioned biomagnetic (vital) energy. The
subtle energy is an integral part of all the cellular and molecular constituents of
the body. Its physical existence in all the cells, tissues, neurons, enzymes, glands
etc. is as homogeneous as that of the dissolved salt in the sea water. The overall
intelligence, sharpness, health and activeness (called Ojas) of a person is
maintained by the vital energy. The subtle energy also inspires the brilliance
(Tejas) of thoughts and the divinity (Varcas) of the innermost sentiments
(antahkaran).
Great personalities with higher spiritual level naturally have their subtle and
astral bodies in the awaken state. The power of their biomagnetism can be easily
seen in terms of their aura around their physical body especially around their
face and fingers. One finds divine attraction in them. Their company inspires
godliness in others. People with low biomagnetism on the other hand, induce a
kind of repelling force and dullness in their surrounding atmosphere. In spite of
good physical looks and body-built etc. they appear to be 'lifeless' and
abominable. Similarly the biomagnetism of people with negative personal traits
(cruelty, or loose-character) spread corresponding harmful effects in its vicinity.
The ancient Indian scriptures describes in detail, the science, philosophy and
methods of practicing various spiritual processes (Yoga and Sadhan) meant for
increasing the 'positive' biomagnetism and thereby nourishing the will-power,
intellect and other mental and physical abilities. These methods deal with micro-
subtler forms of the vital mechanisms inside the human body.
The atmosphere above the earth is charged with the strength of a wide variety of
energy waves within or beyond the range of the X, Gamma, Beta, Infrared,
Ultraviolet, or laser types of radiations. The human body constantly receives
such cosmic radiations and transmits similar ones in the surrounding
atmosphere. Enormous amount of this energy remains stored in the human body
and manifests its power in terms of its various macro or molecular functions
governed by universal physico-chemical laws. The powers and capabilities of the
subtle human body (a continuum of above mentioned storage of cosmic energies
linked with the vital energy), however, are unimaginable. This unlimited source
of power remains unutilized because of our ignorance about its existence.
Recent scientific research indicates that the geomagnetic pressure and the
electrical field in the earth's atmosphere are essential not only for the
biophysical/biochemical functioning of our body but also for our mental
creativity. The feelings of fatigue, dizziness, lack of decision-making abilities
observed in the astronauts when they are away from the earth's atmosphere gave
rise to the hypothesis which was confirmed by a series of systematic
experiments. In other experiments the astronauts felt perfectly normal while
traveling in the space-crafts where the earth's atmosphere was artificially created.
Drs. Dendaniel and Kentberg have shown that longevity and reproductively also
depend on the electrical waves received from the external fields in the
atmosphere. The pollution of the natural atmosphere and adoption of artificial
life-style by the human society has resulted in a decrease in the level of the above
mentioned electrical flows and the capacity of human beings to absorb these
waves. The reductions in the average life of an individual and the increased
incidence of impotency in modern age are obvious off-shoots of this imbalance.
The huge electric capacitor of the earth and its atmosphere is called the Global
Capacitor. This capacitor is dynamic and continuously subjected to electrical
fluctuations. It emits the waves of natural frequency range of about 7 to 8 cycles
per second. These waves constantly resonate between the earth's surface and the
ionosphere and give rise to the Schumann Resonance. It is a significant
coincidence that these waves closely resemble the electrical waves that are active
in the human brain. Both are active at the same frequency. In a book entitled ‘The
Circadian Rhythms of Man’ the author, Prof. R.A. Ved described how the
biological rhythm of the functions of a human body and the electromagnetic
fields in the surrounding atmosphere influence each other.
Further, a strong electrical field also exists deep inside the Geonucleus. An
2
of this region. As this
electric current of about one ampere is flowing in each cm
current spreads throughout the geosphere it gathers strength and begins to
follow a spiral path. This current gives rise to the electromagnetic storms which
also influence various cellular and molecular components of the human body.
In facts, our universe contains an organized system of electromagnetic waves.
This universal system not only controls the mutual attraction and movements of
various planets at the macro level but is also responsible for all the continuous
motions and activities at the atomic and the micro-atomic levels. Energy in the
form of electromagnetic waves exists everywhere in the universal 'ocean' of
Ether, where it forms an omnipresent cosmic flow. The level of this cosmic
energy existing in a person is manifested by the aura around his/her body. One
can receive and subtly store any desired amount of the universal vital energy by
the proper practice of the Pranayam Sadhana of Yoga with strong will-power and
faith.
The mechanism of absorption of the above energy and the regulation of
biomagnetism would become clearer when we consider the following features of
human body:
The Physical System of the Human Body
In continuation of the discovery of genes and neuropeptides, the molecular and
(neuro)biologists and physicists have also discovered some macromolecules
responsible for bioelectrical functioning. It is found that a powerful electrostatic
field exists in most tissues of our body. These electric fields activate the neurons
in the brain and, under the energized control of small amounts of neuropeptide,
affect the membrane potential across the cells in other parts of the body.
12
cells. There exist an electrical potential
The human body consists of over 75 x 10
of about 60 to 90 millivolts across the membrane of each cell. The body is thus a
strong electrical powerhouse. Every important function of this system- such as
the heart beating, nerve and muscle stretching and contraction, hormonal
secretion, information processing by the central nervous system etc. - involves
electrical activity. During respiration we inhale negative ions which are
absorbed in the blood corpuscles and are spread throughout the whole body
with the circulation of blood. These ions are discharged back into the atmosphere
through the skin pores. This electrical cycle continues throughout our life.
The endocrine gland (Sushumna Nadi) is described by the scientists as a
permanent electric dipole whose negatively charged lower (south) pole resides in
the Kava Equina (Muladhar) in the centre of the genital organs and the positively
charged upper (north) pole lies in the cerebrum (Sahasrar). In all living organism
the electrical flows through the spinal cord are directed downwards. Distinctly,
the human body alone is enriched with such a strong vital energy which if
evoked under proper Sadhana processes of Yoga would reverse the direction of
this flow and strengthen the functioning of the brain by activating the otherwise
unused subtle centers of energy existing there.
5
The total electrical pressure of about 10
volts per centimeter exists in the human
body which is continuously lost by exhalation through the skin pores and the
genital organs. This loss could be reduced by dedicated practice of the control
(Sanyam sadhana) processes of yoga and meditation as described in the ancient
Indian scriptures. The electrical energy saved thereby could be utilized for
elevating one's biomagnetic level and lead to an increase in one's charm,
activeness, courage, patience, sharpness etc. Under specific spiritual practices
this energy could also be used in awakening of the subtle parts of the innermost
center of the divine sentiments existing in every human being. Spiritual experts
examine the personality of an individual by 'reading' the (biomagnetic) aura
around his/her body and suggest the appropriate line of practice accordingly.
The Mysterious Subtle system of Human Body
The visible structure and function of the human body is wonderful in itself. More
peculiar are its inherent, imperceptible and subtle aspects. A mysterious and all
powerful world of electromagnetic waves and neurochemicals is hidden inside
this system. For a complete decipheration of the complexity of this system, it
would be beneficial to consider the sayings of the Upanisads and other scriptures
as theorems and propositions and plan the theoretical and experimental
investigations to prove or solve them. The eleventh Mantra (counsel) of Isopnisad
says - 'One who learns from the known as well as the unknown overcomes the
knowledge of death and eternity'. In other words, only the interlinking of
material based scientific research and the realization of the invisible subtle
powers through spirituality would lead to a complete understanding of the
origin, structure, functioning, and purpose behind the living human-system.
Our body with this bioelectrical property functions like a dipole magnet whose
north pole resides in the central brain and south pole in the center of the genital
organs. Scientists claim that its polarization process is similar to the polarization
of the earth and that it begins right at the level of a zygote. Mitotic and/or
meiotic divisions occur after this polarization. An electrosensitive micron-image
processing of even a child's body can show the halo of light (etheric dense spots)
near the brain and genital organs. The north and south poles of the bioelectric
magnet of human body match respectively with the term 'Sahasrar' (in central
reticular activating system) as referred in the description of 'Kundalini' (galaxy of
energy sources) in spiritual science. Sahasrar and Muladhar are described as the
terminal points for the subtle energy and information processing inside the
body's universe.
In his book "The Field of Life"(John Wiley 1972) Dr. Sexten Berr writes that the
high magnitude of the electro-potential difference between the two poles of a
zygote is amazing. This bioelectromagnetic property naturally has an important
role to play in the multicellular development of this single cell into a whole
human body. In fact, the sperm itself is a dipole in which the upper pole carrying
the nucleus is the centre of information and the lower pole, the tail, contains
energy for transmitting this information. These poles ultimately perform the
roles of RNA and DNA in the cell.
The continuous and controlled flows of electric currents between the involved
cellular dipoles play the key role in embryogenesis and the complete
development of the body. According to Dr. Jean Mark (Science, Issue 1 in 1981)
electrophoresis is fundamental to various cellular processes occurring inside the
body. Even the circulating RBCs and WBCs rely on electro-secretions through
their membranes.
Maximum work on electrophysiology is reported to be on the cardiac pacemaker
and the conducting tissue which controls the pumping action of the heart.
Electrophysiological phenomena have also been studied microscopically in
spinal cord (Sushumna) and connecting sympathetic and parasympathetic
ganglions. Transport of calcium ions across the cell membrane is found to be
responsible for the bioelectromagnetic properties of the cells.
The terrestrial magnetic lines of force enter through the geomagnetic north pole
of the earth and exit from the geo-south pole. The reception and transmission of
cosmic rays is also most effective at these poles. The charged high speed solar
rays are always concentrated at the receiving center (north pole) and are
dispersed at the exit (south pole). Geographic south pole also plays the exit door
for heat and pollution gathered at the geo-north pole. These examples are cited to
explain the importance of polarization stored in our body too. The successful
development and control of the two poles in the human body results in the
external appearance of the Tejovalay (aura) at the upper pole.
The spinal cord is like a connecting wire that transmits bioelectric power
transmission from the central nervous system to all sensory organs within a
thousandth part of a second. The spinal cord is made up of collagen tissue
constituted by the compact assembly of stable protein molecules. The upper end
of this cord (of nerves) is charged positively while the lower end is charged
negatively. In terms of the tissue structure this cord forms a coiled cluster at the
lower end and spreads at the upper end to form an elliptical surface of the
reticular activating system in the brain. The body's immense electrical energy is
centrally stored at this place. Due to its hidden storage and nullification due to
opposite charges it is usually difficult to measure the electric fields by
electroencephalography. This is the reason why EEG is considered to represent
only about 13% of the entire brain functions.
In the Indian scripture on Yoga, these electrical fields and the center of the pineal-
hypothalamus-pituitary system of neuronal transmissions is termed as the
Brahmrandhra and Sahasrar. This end (Chakra) is described to be the station which
receives the cosmic signals and subtle transmissions from the universe. Under
proper spiritual training, the desired supernatural powers could be received
through this end and the evil effects could be discarded through the Muladhar
(the lower pole). The quality and extent of the reception of the 'current' of cosmic
energy at the upper end (the Brahmrandhra and the Sahasrar) of the dipole magnet
of spinal cord depends upon the mental and spiritual level of the person. The
way the cosmic rays received by the geo-north pole of the earth and the waste
thereafter is thrown out through the geo-south pole is similar to the subtle
process of the reception of cosmic signals at the upper end (Sahasrar) of the spinal
cord and exit (after necessary absorption and processing at different centers,
chakras, along the spinal cord) of the unused part through the lower end (the
Muladhar). In Indian scriptures on Yoga and Kundalini, the Muladhar is described
to be like a deep pond and Sahasrar like profound mountains simulating
(figuratively) the kailash peak of the great Himalayas; the conformity and union
of the two chakras (Muladhar and Sahasrar) is considered to cause eternal bliss of
the complete merger of the individual self (Atma) into the ultimate, unlimited
universal self (Parmatma).
At the Sahasrar the cosmic rays form the aura (Tejovalay) specific to the
consciousness and vital energy of the receiving person. One might ask whether it
is possible to photograph or record this aura of vital energy at the upper pole of
spinal cord like the visual recording of different features of polar spectrum at the
terrestrial north pole? Will this aura resemble the sort of bright sphere (halo of
light) picturized in the different images of Gods and Goddesses in the ancient
books? The answer to these questions is affirmative as published in the two
volumes of 'Psychic Discoveries Behind Iron Curtain' and in other references
cited in the earlier articles published in Akhand jyoti on topics covering the
microsubtler effects. Kerliyan Photographic techniques have made it possible to
record the aura (halo of light). Dr Narendran, a neurologist at Madras Medical
College is reported to have recorded the vital energy zones (halo of light) around
other parts of the body including the fingers. The Kerliyan technique of sensing
and recording of micro-ionic energy spheres of subtle form is a remarkable
scientific achievement after the development of Thermograms and
Electromagnetograms in the recent decades.
According to Dr. Narendran, the intensity of the aura increases with the level of
vital energy. It exists even in inanimate matter and in plants and trees but is
difficult to be photographed due to low intensity. For measuring the aura in
normal human beings a 'high-voltage projection recording' is done using a
modified version of Dr. Kilner's instrument (original design developed in 1949).
Researchers in this field opine that the measurement of the aura and the analysis
of its spectra would be useful in understanding the mental state of the patients
and would, therefore, add to the psychosomatic means for diagnosis and
management of diseases. According to them, the knowledge about this new
branch of science existed since ages but was misinterpreted due to unscientific
practices of Mesmerism, Holography etc.
Using the diasynine screen Dr. Kilner had shown that the distribution of ions in
the atmosphere surrounding our body is affected by the number of dead cells
being disposed off through the skin pores and the extent and rate of cell decay is
associated with the level of vital energy, hence a relation between the aura
(visualized due to ionic zone) and the vital energy.
He mentions in his book entitled 'Human Atmosphere' that due to their tiny
structure the charged-particles in the aura remain invisible, however, people
with supernatural powers can see and measure (read) the aura.
The present state of investigations in this area indicates the beginning of a
collaborative research between the physical and spiritual sciences. Further
information on the physical properties of the aura will successively be published
in this magazine (Akhand jyoti).
Complete knowledge about the subtle mechanisms of the living system will help
unveil the mystery of the universe. This in turn will increase our faith in the
supreme powers of its creator and hence in humanity in the truest sense.
The Suksmikaran sadhana (spiritual process of subtlisation) is a consistent and
phased process of the realization, unification, expansion and conversion of the
individual consciousness into the supreme universal soul. Integration of science
with spirituality will one day brighten the knowledge about this Sadhana and
make its practice available for the benefit of every living being.
As we proceed to know more about the subtle mechanisms of the living-system
within us, it will become clearer that the power of consciousness (Chetan satta) is
far superior to that of matter.
An unlimited resource of electrical energy forms the basis of Nature. The
discovery of this fact and persistent efforts to utilize this immense power of
Nature has been of great help in scientific and technological developments of our
age.
The space between the earth's strata and the Ionosphere contains positive
5
potential of about 3x 10
volts while the earth's interior contains an equivalent
amount of negative charge. On an average, every living organism on the earth
bears a subtle electrical pressure of the order of 5 volts/meter created by the lowest
layer of the ionosphere situated about 60 Km above the earth's surface. This
potential generates an electric current in the human body which is a good
conductor of electricity. The measurements by sophisticated instruments have
-16 2
amp.sec/cm . At a first
shown that this current is of the magnitude of 10
glance, this small quantity of current may appear to be negligible. Nevertheless,
its effects are incredible because of the existence of some subtle power centers in
the human-body as described below.
The scientific exposition presented here is focused on the subtle power centers in
the human-body whose existence is manifested in the forms of bioelectricity and
biomagnetism. The subtle bioelectrical energy provides the vital force for the
body's functioning and governs mental activities. Human body simulates an
'ocean' consisting of infinitely many 'rivers' in the form of blood vessels and the
nerves. Each respiratory cycle gives rise to high and low tides of currents in this
'Ocean' at an average rate of about 15 cycles/minute. The technique of electric
power generation from the tides and cyclones in the sea water is well known
today. However, very few people know that the electric ions inhaled from the
surrounding atmosphere during each respiratory cycle give rise to a powerful
electrical flow in our body. The ancient Indian sages (Rishis) had an in-depth
knowledge about this current and its utilization for higher purposes.
Our body can be represented as a grand powerhouse. The brain and the heart
work respectively like the generator and the transmitter of the bioelectricity
(ionic currents) in the body. The bioelectric energy is distributed amongst the
body’s cells as per their functional requirements. This electricity, in conjunction
with the subtle (vital) energy of a person, generates biomagnetism which in turn
manifests itself in the aura (halo of light) around one's body or in the region of
attraction in one's personality.
It should be noted here that biomagnetism is a conscious power which can affect
the material as well as the conscious forms existing in Nature. If this subtle vital
energy could ever be measured as electromagnetic energy, it would turn out to
be the greatest gift from the Creator of the Universe endowed upon the human
life. The saints of yore had found that biomagnetism can be experienced in
spiritual people whilst communicating with them in their physical presence or in
the state of deep meditation. Supernatural abilities can be developed by
controlling the use of this energy through different spiritual practices. This
energy then helps in communicating with the subtle world of consciousness
pervading the entire universe.
Human consciousness is a part of the universal divine consciousness and the
extent of the manifestation of the latter via sentiments, thoughts and deeds of the
former depends on the level of above mentioned biomagnetic (vital) energy. The
subtle energy is an integral part of all the cellular and molecular constituents of
the body. Its physical existence in all the cells, tissues, neurons, enzymes, glands
etc. is as homogeneous as that of the dissolved salt in the sea water. The overall
intelligence, sharpness, health and activeness (called Ojas) of a person is
maintained by the vital energy. The subtle energy also inspires the brilliance
(Tejas) of thoughts and the divinity (Varcas) of the innermost sentiments
(antahkaran).
Great personalities with higher spiritual level naturally have their subtle and
astral bodies in the awaken state. The power of their biomagnetism can be easily
seen in terms of their aura around their physical body especially around their
face and fingers. One finds divine attraction in them. Their company inspires
godliness in others. People with low biomagnetism on the other hand, induce a
kind of repelling force and dullness in their surrounding atmosphere. In spite of
good physical looks and body-built etc. they appear to be 'lifeless' and
abominable. Similarly the biomagnetism of people with negative personal traits
(cruelty, or loose-character) spread corresponding harmful effects in its vicinity.
The ancient Indian scriptures describes in detail, the science, philosophy and
methods of practicing various spiritual processes (Yoga and Sadhan) meant for
increasing the 'positive' biomagnetism and thereby nourishing the will-power,
intellect and other mental and physical abilities. These methods deal with micro-
subtler forms of the vital mechanisms inside the human body.
The atmosphere above the earth is charged with the strength of a wide variety of
energy waves within or beyond the range of the X, Gamma, Beta, Infrared,
Ultraviolet, or laser types of radiations. The human body constantly receives
such cosmic radiations and transmits similar ones in the surrounding
atmosphere. Enormous amount of this energy remains stored in the human body
and manifests its power in terms of its various macro or molecular functions
governed by universal physico-chemical laws. The powers and capabilities of the
subtle human body (a continuum of above mentioned storage of cosmic energies
linked with the vital energy), however, are unimaginable. This unlimited source
of power remains unutilized because of our ignorance about its existence.
Recent scientific research indicates that the geomagnetic pressure and the
electrical field in the earth's atmosphere are essential not only for the
biophysical/biochemical functioning of our body but also for our mental
creativity. The feelings of fatigue, dizziness, lack of decision-making abilities
observed in the astronauts when they are away from the earth's atmosphere gave
rise to the hypothesis which was confirmed by a series of systematic
experiments. In other experiments the astronauts felt perfectly normal while
traveling in the space-crafts where the earth's atmosphere was artificially created.
Drs. Dendaniel and Kentberg have shown that longevity and reproductively also
depend on the electrical waves received from the external fields in the
atmosphere. The pollution of the natural atmosphere and adoption of artificial
life-style by the human society has resulted in a decrease in the level of the above
mentioned electrical flows and the capacity of human beings to absorb these
waves. The reductions in the average life of an individual and the increased
incidence of impotency in modern age are obvious off-shoots of this imbalance.
The huge electric capacitor of the earth and its atmosphere is called the Global
Capacitor. This capacitor is dynamic and continuously subjected to electrical
fluctuations. It emits the waves of natural frequency range of about 7 to 8 cycles
per second. These waves constantly resonate between the earth's surface and the
ionosphere and give rise to the Schumann Resonance. It is a significant
coincidence that these waves closely resemble the electrical waves that are active
in the human brain. Both are active at the same frequency. In a book entitled ‘The
Circadian Rhythms of Man’ the author, Prof. R.A. Ved described how the
biological rhythm of the functions of a human body and the electromagnetic
fields in the surrounding atmosphere influence each other.
Further, a strong electrical field also exists deep inside the Geonucleus. An
2
of this region. As this
electric current of about one ampere is flowing in each cm
current spreads throughout the geosphere it gathers strength and begins to
follow a spiral path. This current gives rise to the electromagnetic storms which
also influence various cellular and molecular components of the human body.
In facts, our universe contains an organized system of electromagnetic waves.
This universal system not only controls the mutual attraction and movements of
various planets at the macro level but is also responsible for all the continuous
motions and activities at the atomic and the micro-atomic levels. Energy in the
form of electromagnetic waves exists everywhere in the universal 'ocean' of
Ether, where it forms an omnipresent cosmic flow. The level of this cosmic
energy existing in a person is manifested by the aura around his/her body. One
can receive and subtly store any desired amount of the universal vital energy by
the proper practice of the Pranayam Sadhana of Yoga with strong will-power and
faith.
The mechanism of absorption of the above energy and the regulation of
biomagnetism would become clearer when we consider the following features of
human body:
The Physical System of the Human Body
In continuation of the discovery of genes and neuropeptides, the molecular and
(neuro)biologists and physicists have also discovered some macromolecules
responsible for bioelectrical functioning. It is found that a powerful electrostatic
field exists in most tissues of our body. These electric fields activate the neurons
in the brain and, under the energized control of small amounts of neuropeptide,
affect the membrane potential across the cells in other parts of the body.
12
cells. There exist an electrical potential
The human body consists of over 75 x 10
of about 60 to 90 millivolts across the membrane of each cell. The body is thus a
strong electrical powerhouse. Every important function of this system- such as
the heart beating, nerve and muscle stretching and contraction, hormonal
secretion, information processing by the central nervous system etc. - involves
electrical activity. During respiration we inhale negative ions which are
absorbed in the blood corpuscles and are spread throughout the whole body
with the circulation of blood. These ions are discharged back into the atmosphere
through the skin pores. This electrical cycle continues throughout our life.
The endocrine gland (Sushumna Nadi) is described by the scientists as a
permanent electric dipole whose negatively charged lower (south) pole resides in
the Kava Equina (Muladhar) in the centre of the genital organs and the positively
charged upper (north) pole lies in the cerebrum (Sahasrar). In all living organism
the electrical flows through the spinal cord are directed downwards. Distinctly,
the human body alone is enriched with such a strong vital energy which if
evoked under proper Sadhana processes of Yoga would reverse the direction of
this flow and strengthen the functioning of the brain by activating the otherwise
unused subtle centers of energy existing there.
5
The total electrical pressure of about 10
volts per centimeter exists in the human
body which is continuously lost by exhalation through the skin pores and the
genital organs. This loss could be reduced by dedicated practice of the control
(Sanyam sadhana) processes of yoga and meditation as described in the ancient
Indian scriptures. The electrical energy saved thereby could be utilized for
elevating one's biomagnetic level and lead to an increase in one's charm,
activeness, courage, patience, sharpness etc. Under specific spiritual practices
this energy could also be used in awakening of the subtle parts of the innermost
center of the divine sentiments existing in every human being. Spiritual experts
examine the personality of an individual by 'reading' the (biomagnetic) aura
around his/her body and suggest the appropriate line of practice accordingly.
The Mysterious Subtle system of Human Body
The visible structure and function of the human body is wonderful in itself. More
peculiar are its inherent, imperceptible and subtle aspects. A mysterious and all
powerful world of electromagnetic waves and neurochemicals is hidden inside
this system. For a complete decipheration of the complexity of this system, it
would be beneficial to consider the sayings of the Upanisads and other scriptures
as theorems and propositions and plan the theoretical and experimental
investigations to prove or solve them. The eleventh Mantra (counsel) of Isopnisad
says - 'One who learns from the known as well as the unknown overcomes the
knowledge of death and eternity'. In other words, only the interlinking of
material based scientific research and the realization of the invisible subtle
powers through spirituality would lead to a complete understanding of the
origin, structure, functioning, and purpose behind the living human-system.
Our body with this bioelectrical property functions like a dipole magnet whose
north pole resides in the central brain and south pole in the center of the genital
organs. Scientists claim that its polarization process is similar to the polarization
of the earth and that it begins right at the level of a zygote. Mitotic and/or
meiotic divisions occur after this polarization. An electrosensitive micron-image
processing of even a child's body can show the halo of light (etheric dense spots)
near the brain and genital organs. The north and south poles of the bioelectric
magnet of human body match respectively with the term 'Sahasrar' (in central
reticular activating system) as referred in the description of 'Kundalini' (galaxy of
energy sources) in spiritual science. Sahasrar and Muladhar are described as the
terminal points for the subtle energy and information processing inside the
body's universe.
In his book "The Field of Life"(John Wiley 1972) Dr. Sexten Berr writes that the
high magnitude of the electro-potential difference between the two poles of a
zygote is amazing. This bioelectromagnetic property naturally has an important
role to play in the multicellular development of this single cell into a whole
human body. In fact, the sperm itself is a dipole in which the upper pole carrying
the nucleus is the centre of information and the lower pole, the tail, contains
energy for transmitting this information. These poles ultimately perform the
roles of RNA and DNA in the cell.
The continuous and controlled flows of electric currents between the involved
cellular dipoles play the key role in embryogenesis and the complete
development of the body. According to Dr. Jean Mark (Science, Issue 1 in 1981)
electrophoresis is fundamental to various cellular processes occurring inside the
body. Even the circulating RBCs and WBCs rely on electro-secretions through
their membranes.
Maximum work on electrophysiology is reported to be on the cardiac pacemaker
and the conducting tissue which controls the pumping action of the heart.
Electrophysiological phenomena have also been studied microscopically in
spinal cord (Sushumna) and connecting sympathetic and parasympathetic
ganglions. Transport of calcium ions across the cell membrane is found to be
responsible for the bioelectromagnetic properties of the cells.
The terrestrial magnetic lines of force enter through the geomagnetic north pole
of the earth and exit from the geo-south pole. The reception and transmission of
cosmic rays is also most effective at these poles. The charged high speed solar
rays are always concentrated at the receiving center (north pole) and are
dispersed at the exit (south pole). Geographic south pole also plays the exit door
for heat and pollution gathered at the geo-north pole. These examples are cited to
explain the importance of polarization stored in our body too. The successful
development and control of the two poles in the human body results in the
external appearance of the Tejovalay (aura) at the upper pole.
The spinal cord is like a connecting wire that transmits bioelectric power
transmission from the central nervous system to all sensory organs within a
thousandth part of a second. The spinal cord is made up of collagen tissue
constituted by the compact assembly of stable protein molecules. The upper end
of this cord (of nerves) is charged positively while the lower end is charged
negatively. In terms of the tissue structure this cord forms a coiled cluster at the
lower end and spreads at the upper end to form an elliptical surface of the
reticular activating system in the brain. The body's immense electrical energy is
centrally stored at this place. Due to its hidden storage and nullification due to
opposite charges it is usually difficult to measure the electric fields by
electroencephalography. This is the reason why EEG is considered to represent
only about 13% of the entire brain functions.
In the Indian scripture on Yoga, these electrical fields and the center of the pineal-
hypothalamus-pituitary system of neuronal transmissions is termed as the
Brahmrandhra and Sahasrar. This end (Chakra) is described to be the station which
receives the cosmic signals and subtle transmissions from the universe. Under
proper spiritual training, the desired supernatural powers could be received
through this end and the evil effects could be discarded through the Muladhar
(the lower pole). The quality and extent of the reception of the 'current' of cosmic
energy at the upper end (the Brahmrandhra and the Sahasrar) of the dipole magnet
of spinal cord depends upon the mental and spiritual level of the person. The
way the cosmic rays received by the geo-north pole of the earth and the waste
thereafter is thrown out through the geo-south pole is similar to the subtle
process of the reception of cosmic signals at the upper end (Sahasrar) of the spinal
cord and exit (after necessary absorption and processing at different centers,
chakras, along the spinal cord) of the unused part through the lower end (the
Muladhar). In Indian scriptures on Yoga and Kundalini, the Muladhar is described
to be like a deep pond and Sahasrar like profound mountains simulating
(figuratively) the kailash peak of the great Himalayas; the conformity and union
of the two chakras (Muladhar and Sahasrar) is considered to cause eternal bliss of
the complete merger of the individual self (Atma) into the ultimate, unlimited
universal self (Parmatma).
At the Sahasrar the cosmic rays form the aura (Tejovalay) specific to the
consciousness and vital energy of the receiving person. One might ask whether it
is possible to photograph or record this aura of vital energy at the upper pole of
spinal cord like the visual recording of different features of polar spectrum at the
terrestrial north pole? Will this aura resemble the sort of bright sphere (halo of
light) picturized in the different images of Gods and Goddesses in the ancient
books? The answer to these questions is affirmative as published in the two
volumes of 'Psychic Discoveries Behind Iron Curtain' and in other references
cited in the earlier articles published in Akhand jyoti on topics covering the
microsubtler effects. Kerliyan Photographic techniques have made it possible to
record the aura (halo of light). Dr Narendran, a neurologist at Madras Medical
College is reported to have recorded the vital energy zones (halo of light) around
other parts of the body including the fingers. The Kerliyan technique of sensing
and recording of micro-ionic energy spheres of subtle form is a remarkable
scientific achievement after the development of Thermograms and
Electromagnetograms in the recent decades.
According to Dr. Narendran, the intensity of the aura increases with the level of
vital energy. It exists even in inanimate matter and in plants and trees but is
difficult to be photographed due to low intensity. For measuring the aura in
normal human beings a 'high-voltage projection recording' is done using a
modified version of Dr. Kilner's instrument (original design developed in 1949).
Researchers in this field opine that the measurement of the aura and the analysis
of its spectra would be useful in understanding the mental state of the patients
and would, therefore, add to the psychosomatic means for diagnosis and
management of diseases. According to them, the knowledge about this new
branch of science existed since ages but was misinterpreted due to unscientific
practices of Mesmerism, Holography etc.
Using the diasynine screen Dr. Kilner had shown that the distribution of ions in
the atmosphere surrounding our body is affected by the number of dead cells
being disposed off through the skin pores and the extent and rate of cell decay is
associated with the level of vital energy, hence a relation between the aura
(visualized due to ionic zone) and the vital energy.
He mentions in his book entitled 'Human Atmosphere' that due to their tiny
structure the charged-particles in the aura remain invisible, however, people
with supernatural powers can see and measure (read) the aura.
The present state of investigations in this area indicates the beginning of a
collaborative research between the physical and spiritual sciences. Further
information on the physical properties of the aura will successively be published
in this magazine (Akhand jyoti).
Complete knowledge about the subtle mechanisms of the living system will help
unveil the mystery of the universe. This in turn will increase our faith in the
supreme powers of its creator and hence in humanity in the truest sense.
The Suksmikaran sadhana (spiritual process of subtlisation) is a consistent and
phased process of the realization, unification, expansion and conversion of the
individual consciousness into the supreme universal soul. Integration of science
with spirituality will one day brighten the knowledge about this Sadhana and
make its practice available for the benefit of every living being.
As we proceed to know more about the subtle mechanisms of the living-system
within us, it will become clearer that the power of consciousness (Chetan satta) is
far superior to that of matter.
The Magnetic Ocean in the Human Body
The Magnetic Ocean in the Human Body
Human body is a wonderful creation of the supreme natural power. It is
endowed with all the physical and conscious energy forms existing in the
universe. The living system of human body can be identified as a grand magnet
or as a moving electric powerhouse. The human-magnet through its vital energy
can affect and get affected by others. An in-depth study and controlled
utilization of such effects at (bio)physical and subtle levels offers challenging and
important research problems in advanced science.
The source of biomagnetism in our body gains energy from the earth's
gravitation similar to what the latter gains from the sun. All the universal
magnetic forces affect the biomagnetism of the human body. Vital energy levels
of a person vary according to the biomagnetism of his/her body. The visible
effects of reduction in this magnetic power are: dullness in eyes, spiritless face,
dry skin and lethargic body. Feelings of oblivion, illusion and fatigue are
common in people with weak biomagnetism. Elevated levels of biomagnetism on
the other hand, give rise to corresponding increase in the general activeness,
charm, enthusiasm, sound memory and intellect. Persons having more powerful
biomagnetism naturally attract and influence the weaker ones.
The reception of cosmic radiations by human-psyche is also characterized by the
latter's biomagnetic quality. The north pole of the human magnet is said to reside
in the human brain. The formation of an aura (halo of light) around this vital
organ is a result of an upward bioelectric flow near the subtle pole. The south
pole of the human-magnet is situated near the genital organs. The sexual
activities are controlled by the vital energy through this pole. Excessive
stimulation of this pole results in severe loss of the vital energy.
The body's biomagnet can be made more powerful by a consistently upward
flow of the vital energy. Dr. Albert Abraham of San Francisco defines the human
body as a whirlpool of magnetic energy waves. A living human body
continuously emits and absorbs these energy waves from its surrounding fields.
Dr.Abraham's research indicates that the rate of electro magnetic energy through
9
cycles per second; the rate of receiving
a human body is of the order of 80x10
energy from cosmic radiations however, is much higher. The technique to
measure the electromagnetic- energy emitted by a body was also developed by
Dr. Abraham. This technique is called Radisthesia. Dr. Abraham's measurements
showed that the rate of emission of energy is maximum from the brain, eyes,
finger-tips and genital organs.
Advanced research in related biomedical sciences has shown that the mutual
adjustment of the magnetic fields among various tissues and cellular interactions
control the normal/healthy functioning of our body. The continuous circulation
of blood due to the minute iron and other chargeable particles in the RBCs
results in a consistent flow of an electric current. The electric field generated
thereby also creates a biomagnetic field inside the body. The iron and other
charged particles thus provide energy for various ionic flows at the cellular and
organ levels. Because of the highly complex but extremely well balanced
electromagnetic interactions between a large number of constituent
macromolecules, each healthy cell in the body is like a string power
storage/supply unit. Any imbalance (due to the intercellular and the
extracellular ionic flows) in the cell's electromagnetic activity amounts to a loss of
the vital energy which results in a reduced resistance to various diseases.
A group of scientists working at the Leningrad University have successfully
detected the presence of biomagnetic fields in the human body. They argue that
an excessive stimulation of such fields in a person may create serious problems
for his/her mental and physical health. John Michael and Robert J. M. Richard
have described many incidents of such effects in their book entitled 'Mysterious
Phenomena'. Some of these incidents are described below in brief.
Investigators at the Ontario Medical Association, Canada observed a case of one
Ms. Carolina Clair who possessed an excess of biomagnetism. With a little
stimulation her body-magnet was able to attract and stick iron made substances
like knives, spoons, nails etc. Similar presence of biomagnetism was observed by
some scientists in the fingers of a female student at Maryland University. She
was able to hang a 1 ft X 1 inch iron rod in the air by a mere touch of her finger-
tips. Compass needles placed near her used to stop functioning. Even the people
in her proximity would feel being pulled by an unusual force of attraction.
A man named Frank Mac-Quinstry in Jopline, Missouri (USA) was sometimes
unable to walk because his feet would stick to the earth in the stimulated state of
the sensitive biomagnet of his body. Pulling off by a stronger external force used
to be his remedy in such situations.
Noted psychologist Prof.Victor E. Kromar has investigated the role of mental
power (will power) in controlling and utilizing the biomagnetic power of the
human body. The experiences and experiments of Dr. F.A. Mesmer of Australia
are well known in this regard.
Due to the unavailability of proper medicines, Dr. Mesmer once found himself
helpless in controlling the excessive bleeding through a patient's body. In this
desperate situation, Dr. Mesmer began to move his hand on the wounded spot;
he observed that the bleeding miraculously stopped after a while. Inspired by
this incident, Dr. Mesmer conducted many experiment to study the associated
effects. He concluded that it is some kind of electromagnetic field existing in his
finger-tips that affects the bodies of his patients. This power was given a name
biomagnetism by him. Dr. Mesmer's research led to the foundation of
Mesmerism. Later, Dr. Van Helmond also gained popularity because of his
successful experiments in curing mental and physical diseases by Mesmerism.
The pain killing treatments given to the German dictator, Adolf Hitler and his
friend Helmer by an Estonian, named Christan are historical examples of the
applications of Mesmerism. Christan is also said to have used his hypnotizing
power on Helmer to liberate over a hundred thousand innocent people who
were captured by Hitler.
An expert user of Mesmerism actually influences the will-power and the nervous
system of others by his/her own bioelectromagnetic power. Subtle effects of
such experiments lead to the transfusion of the Prana (vital energy) of the
performer into the body of the patient.
The Greek saint and Doctor, Hippocrates had great faith in the power of vital
energy. His philosophy states that - as the body survives because of the power of
the soul, it should not be difficult to cure and regulate its healthy state by using
the vital energy supplied by the power of Prana (vital energy). A Scottish
philosopher, Mr. Maxwell had a similar belief. He had opened a training center
for spiritual healing. Another European named Eschulepious was famous for his
treatment that included a few sessions of touching a patient and exhaling on the
latter's mouth. An English priest named Father Dued was also known for similar
expertise. A London based gardener named Lanhert gained popularity due to
the healing-effects of his finger-tips.
In the recent past, a group of Parapsychologists headed by Dr. Thalmamos has
experimented on some spiritual healers including celebrities like Dr. Marshal
Warshey. Dr Warshey a urologist by profession, was known in the western
countries for creating 'liveliness' in the patients by a mere touch of his finger tips.
Many otherwise noncurable complaints of headaches were also reported to have
been cured by this spiritual healer.The immense physical power of the vital
energy has been discovered and investigated by different groups of scientists
under different names such as- Biomagnetism, Bioplasm, Actoplasm, Bioflux etc.
The manifestation of this power is negligible in plants and other organisms as
compared to that in the human beings. Dr. Kerliyan and Dr. Thalmamos chromo-
recorded these energy fields around the human body by using the Kerliyan and
Argon photographic techniques. Theosophists call this 'energy-cover' as the
Etheric double. Supernatural and spiritual powers are found to depend on this
biomagnetism/vital energy.
The practices of Meditations and Pranayam as described in ancient Indian
scriptures can provide desired effects in the improvement and control of one's
biomagnetism. Before going-in for such practices one must realize that it is
essential to avoid any wastage of this great power (vital energy) and to properly
use it by mental control over thoughts and the sense-organs and by practicing an
austere life.
Human body is a wonderful creation of the supreme natural power. It is
endowed with all the physical and conscious energy forms existing in the
universe. The living system of human body can be identified as a grand magnet
or as a moving electric powerhouse. The human-magnet through its vital energy
can affect and get affected by others. An in-depth study and controlled
utilization of such effects at (bio)physical and subtle levels offers challenging and
important research problems in advanced science.
The source of biomagnetism in our body gains energy from the earth's
gravitation similar to what the latter gains from the sun. All the universal
magnetic forces affect the biomagnetism of the human body. Vital energy levels
of a person vary according to the biomagnetism of his/her body. The visible
effects of reduction in this magnetic power are: dullness in eyes, spiritless face,
dry skin and lethargic body. Feelings of oblivion, illusion and fatigue are
common in people with weak biomagnetism. Elevated levels of biomagnetism on
the other hand, give rise to corresponding increase in the general activeness,
charm, enthusiasm, sound memory and intellect. Persons having more powerful
biomagnetism naturally attract and influence the weaker ones.
The reception of cosmic radiations by human-psyche is also characterized by the
latter's biomagnetic quality. The north pole of the human magnet is said to reside
in the human brain. The formation of an aura (halo of light) around this vital
organ is a result of an upward bioelectric flow near the subtle pole. The south
pole of the human-magnet is situated near the genital organs. The sexual
activities are controlled by the vital energy through this pole. Excessive
stimulation of this pole results in severe loss of the vital energy.
The body's biomagnet can be made more powerful by a consistently upward
flow of the vital energy. Dr. Albert Abraham of San Francisco defines the human
body as a whirlpool of magnetic energy waves. A living human body
continuously emits and absorbs these energy waves from its surrounding fields.
Dr.Abraham's research indicates that the rate of electro magnetic energy through
9
cycles per second; the rate of receiving
a human body is of the order of 80x10
energy from cosmic radiations however, is much higher. The technique to
measure the electromagnetic- energy emitted by a body was also developed by
Dr. Abraham. This technique is called Radisthesia. Dr. Abraham's measurements
showed that the rate of emission of energy is maximum from the brain, eyes,
finger-tips and genital organs.
Advanced research in related biomedical sciences has shown that the mutual
adjustment of the magnetic fields among various tissues and cellular interactions
control the normal/healthy functioning of our body. The continuous circulation
of blood due to the minute iron and other chargeable particles in the RBCs
results in a consistent flow of an electric current. The electric field generated
thereby also creates a biomagnetic field inside the body. The iron and other
charged particles thus provide energy for various ionic flows at the cellular and
organ levels. Because of the highly complex but extremely well balanced
electromagnetic interactions between a large number of constituent
macromolecules, each healthy cell in the body is like a string power
storage/supply unit. Any imbalance (due to the intercellular and the
extracellular ionic flows) in the cell's electromagnetic activity amounts to a loss of
the vital energy which results in a reduced resistance to various diseases.
A group of scientists working at the Leningrad University have successfully
detected the presence of biomagnetic fields in the human body. They argue that
an excessive stimulation of such fields in a person may create serious problems
for his/her mental and physical health. John Michael and Robert J. M. Richard
have described many incidents of such effects in their book entitled 'Mysterious
Phenomena'. Some of these incidents are described below in brief.
Investigators at the Ontario Medical Association, Canada observed a case of one
Ms. Carolina Clair who possessed an excess of biomagnetism. With a little
stimulation her body-magnet was able to attract and stick iron made substances
like knives, spoons, nails etc. Similar presence of biomagnetism was observed by
some scientists in the fingers of a female student at Maryland University. She
was able to hang a 1 ft X 1 inch iron rod in the air by a mere touch of her finger-
tips. Compass needles placed near her used to stop functioning. Even the people
in her proximity would feel being pulled by an unusual force of attraction.
A man named Frank Mac-Quinstry in Jopline, Missouri (USA) was sometimes
unable to walk because his feet would stick to the earth in the stimulated state of
the sensitive biomagnet of his body. Pulling off by a stronger external force used
to be his remedy in such situations.
Noted psychologist Prof.Victor E. Kromar has investigated the role of mental
power (will power) in controlling and utilizing the biomagnetic power of the
human body. The experiences and experiments of Dr. F.A. Mesmer of Australia
are well known in this regard.
Due to the unavailability of proper medicines, Dr. Mesmer once found himself
helpless in controlling the excessive bleeding through a patient's body. In this
desperate situation, Dr. Mesmer began to move his hand on the wounded spot;
he observed that the bleeding miraculously stopped after a while. Inspired by
this incident, Dr. Mesmer conducted many experiment to study the associated
effects. He concluded that it is some kind of electromagnetic field existing in his
finger-tips that affects the bodies of his patients. This power was given a name
biomagnetism by him. Dr. Mesmer's research led to the foundation of
Mesmerism. Later, Dr. Van Helmond also gained popularity because of his
successful experiments in curing mental and physical diseases by Mesmerism.
The pain killing treatments given to the German dictator, Adolf Hitler and his
friend Helmer by an Estonian, named Christan are historical examples of the
applications of Mesmerism. Christan is also said to have used his hypnotizing
power on Helmer to liberate over a hundred thousand innocent people who
were captured by Hitler.
An expert user of Mesmerism actually influences the will-power and the nervous
system of others by his/her own bioelectromagnetic power. Subtle effects of
such experiments lead to the transfusion of the Prana (vital energy) of the
performer into the body of the patient.
The Greek saint and Doctor, Hippocrates had great faith in the power of vital
energy. His philosophy states that - as the body survives because of the power of
the soul, it should not be difficult to cure and regulate its healthy state by using
the vital energy supplied by the power of Prana (vital energy). A Scottish
philosopher, Mr. Maxwell had a similar belief. He had opened a training center
for spiritual healing. Another European named Eschulepious was famous for his
treatment that included a few sessions of touching a patient and exhaling on the
latter's mouth. An English priest named Father Dued was also known for similar
expertise. A London based gardener named Lanhert gained popularity due to
the healing-effects of his finger-tips.
In the recent past, a group of Parapsychologists headed by Dr. Thalmamos has
experimented on some spiritual healers including celebrities like Dr. Marshal
Warshey. Dr Warshey a urologist by profession, was known in the western
countries for creating 'liveliness' in the patients by a mere touch of his finger tips.
Many otherwise noncurable complaints of headaches were also reported to have
been cured by this spiritual healer.The immense physical power of the vital
energy has been discovered and investigated by different groups of scientists
under different names such as- Biomagnetism, Bioplasm, Actoplasm, Bioflux etc.
The manifestation of this power is negligible in plants and other organisms as
compared to that in the human beings. Dr. Kerliyan and Dr. Thalmamos chromo-
recorded these energy fields around the human body by using the Kerliyan and
Argon photographic techniques. Theosophists call this 'energy-cover' as the
Etheric double. Supernatural and spiritual powers are found to depend on this
biomagnetism/vital energy.
The practices of Meditations and Pranayam as described in ancient Indian
scriptures can provide desired effects in the improvement and control of one's
biomagnetism. Before going-in for such practices one must realize that it is
essential to avoid any wastage of this great power (vital energy) and to properly
use it by mental control over thoughts and the sense-organs and by practicing an
austere life.
The Situation Today: A Network at War
The Situation Today: A Network at War
The situation today is radically different from the one 10 years ago. Over that period of
time, these two groups of people have faced off and crystallized into opposing teams. The
network is now at war and these are the soldiers. Crackers fight furiously for recognition
and often realize it through spectacular feats of technical prowess. A month cannot go by
without a newspaper article about some site that has been cracked. Equally, hackers work
hard to develop new methods of security to ward off the cracker hordes. Who will
ultimately prevail? It is too early to tell. The struggle will likely continue for another
decade or more.
The crackers may be losing ground, though. Because big business has invaded the Net,
the demand for proprietary security tools has increased dramatically. This influx of
corporate money will lead to an increase in the quality of such security tools. Moreover,
the proliferation of these tools will happen at a much faster rate and for a variety of
platforms. Crackers will be faced with greater and greater challenges as time goes on.
However, as I explain in Chapter 5, "Is Security a Futile Endeavor?" the balance of
knowledge maintains a constant, with crackers only inches behind. Some writers assert
that throughout this process, a form of hacker evolution is occurring. By this they mean
that crackers will ultimately be weeded out over the long haul (many will go to jail, many
will grow older and wiser, and so forth). This is probably unrealistic. The exclusivity
associated with being a cracker is a strong lure to up-and-coming teenagers. There is a
mystique surrounding the activities of a cracker.
There is ample evidence, however, that most crackers eventually retire. They later crop
up in various positions, including system administrator jobs. One formerly renowned
cracker today runs an Internet salon. Another works on systems for an airline company in
Florida. Still another is an elected official in a small town in Southern California.
(Because all these individuals have left the life for a more conservative and sane
existence, I elected not to mention their names here.)
The Hackers
I shall close this chapter by giving real-life examples of hackers are crackers. That seems
to be the only reliable way to differentiate between them. From these brief descriptions,
you can get a better understanding of the distinction. Moreover, many of these people are
discussed later at various points in this book. This section prepares you for that as well.
Richard Stallman - Stallman joined the Artificial Intelligence Laboratory at MIT in 1971.
He received the 250K McArthur Genius award for developing software. He ultimately
founded the Free Software Foundation, creating hundreds of freely distributable utilities
and programs for use on the UNIX platform. He worked on some archaic machines,
including the DEC PDP-10 (to which he probably still has access somewhere). He is a
brilliant programmer.
Dennis Ritchie, Ken Thompson, and Brian Kernighan Ritchie - , Thompson, and
Kernighan are programmers at Bell Labs, and all were instrumental in the development of
the UNIX operating system and the C programming language. Take these three
individuals out of the picture, and there would likely be no Internet (or if there were, it
would be a lot less functional). They still hack today. (For example, Ritchie is busy
working on Plan 9 from Bell Labs, a new operating system that will probably supplant
UNIX as the industry-standard super-networking operating system.)
Paul Baran, Rand Corporation Baran is probably the greatest hacker of them all for
one fundamental reason: He was hacking the Internet before the Internet even existed. He
hacked the concept, and his efforts provided a rough navigational tool that served to
inspire those who followed him.
Eugene Spafford Spafford is a professor of computer science, celebrated for his work at
Purdue University and elsewhere. He was instrumental in creating the Computer Oracle
Password and Security System (COPS), a semi-automated system of securing your
network. Spafford has turned out some very prominent students over the years and his
name is intensely respected in the field.
Dan Farmer Farmer worked with Spafford on COPS (Release 1991) while at Carnegie
Mellon University with the Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT). For real
details, see Purdue University Technical Report CSD-TR-993, written by Eugene
Spafford and Daniel Farmer. (Yes, Dan, the byline says Daniel Farmer.) Farmer later
gained national notoriety for releasing the System Administrator Tool for Analyzing
Networks (SATAN), a powerful tool for analyzing remote networks for security
vulnerabilities.
Wietse Venema Venema hails from the Eindhoven University of Technology in the
Netherlands. He is an exceptionally gifted programmer who has a long history of writing
industry-standard security tools. He co-authored SATAN with Farmer and wrote TCP
Wrapper, one of the commonly used security programs in the world. (This program
provides close control and monitoring of information packets coming from the void.)
Linus Torvalds A most extraordinary individual, Torvalds enrolled in classes on UNIX
and the C programming language in the early 1990s. One year later, he began writing a
UNIX-like operating system. Within a year, he released this system to the Internet (it was
called Linux). Today, Linux has a cult following and has the distinction of being the only
operating system ever developed by software programmers all over the world, many of
whom will never meet one another. Linux is free from copyright restrictions and is
available free to anyone with Internet access.
Bill Gates and Paul Allen From their high school days, these men from Washington
were hacking software. Both are skilled programmers. Starting in 1980, they built the
largest and most successful software empire on Earth. Their commercial successes
include MS-DOS, Microsoft Windows, Windows 95, and Windows NT.
The Crackers
Kevin Mitnik Mitnik, also known as Condor, is probably the world's best-known
cracker. Mitnik began his career as a phone phreak. Since those early years, Mitnik has
successfully cracked every manner of secure site you can imagine, including but not
limited to military sites, financial corporations, software firms, and other technology
companies. (When he was still a teen, Mitnik cracked the North American Aerospace
Defense Command.) At the time of this writing, he is awaiting trial on federal charges
stemming from attacks committed in 1994-1995
Kevin Poulsen Having followed a path quite similar to Mitnik, Poulsen is best known for
his uncanny ability to seize control of the Pacific Bell telephone system. (Poulsen once
used this talent to win a radio contest where the prize was a Porsche. He manipulated the
telephone lines so that his call would be the wining one.) Poulsen has also broken nearly
every type of site, but has a special penchant for sites containing defense data. This
greatly complicated his last period of incarceration, which lasted five years. (This is the
longest period ever served by a hacker in the United States.) Poulsen was released in
1996 and has apparently reformed.
Justin Tanner Peterson Known as Agent Steal, Peterson is probably most celebrated for
cracking a prominent consumer credit agency. Peterson appeared to be motivated by
money instead of curiosity. This lack of personal philosophy led to his downfall and the
downfall of others. For example, once caught, Peterson ratted out his friends, including
Kevin Poulsen. Peterson then obtained a deal with the FBI to work undercover. This
secured his release and he subsequently absconded, going on a crime spree that ended
with a failed attempt to secure a six-figure fraudulent wire transfer.
The situation today is radically different from the one 10 years ago. Over that period of
time, these two groups of people have faced off and crystallized into opposing teams. The
network is now at war and these are the soldiers. Crackers fight furiously for recognition
and often realize it through spectacular feats of technical prowess. A month cannot go by
without a newspaper article about some site that has been cracked. Equally, hackers work
hard to develop new methods of security to ward off the cracker hordes. Who will
ultimately prevail? It is too early to tell. The struggle will likely continue for another
decade or more.
The crackers may be losing ground, though. Because big business has invaded the Net,
the demand for proprietary security tools has increased dramatically. This influx of
corporate money will lead to an increase in the quality of such security tools. Moreover,
the proliferation of these tools will happen at a much faster rate and for a variety of
platforms. Crackers will be faced with greater and greater challenges as time goes on.
However, as I explain in Chapter 5, "Is Security a Futile Endeavor?" the balance of
knowledge maintains a constant, with crackers only inches behind. Some writers assert
that throughout this process, a form of hacker evolution is occurring. By this they mean
that crackers will ultimately be weeded out over the long haul (many will go to jail, many
will grow older and wiser, and so forth). This is probably unrealistic. The exclusivity
associated with being a cracker is a strong lure to up-and-coming teenagers. There is a
mystique surrounding the activities of a cracker.
There is ample evidence, however, that most crackers eventually retire. They later crop
up in various positions, including system administrator jobs. One formerly renowned
cracker today runs an Internet salon. Another works on systems for an airline company in
Florida. Still another is an elected official in a small town in Southern California.
(Because all these individuals have left the life for a more conservative and sane
existence, I elected not to mention their names here.)
The Hackers
I shall close this chapter by giving real-life examples of hackers are crackers. That seems
to be the only reliable way to differentiate between them. From these brief descriptions,
you can get a better understanding of the distinction. Moreover, many of these people are
discussed later at various points in this book. This section prepares you for that as well.
Richard Stallman - Stallman joined the Artificial Intelligence Laboratory at MIT in 1971.
He received the 250K McArthur Genius award for developing software. He ultimately
founded the Free Software Foundation, creating hundreds of freely distributable utilities
and programs for use on the UNIX platform. He worked on some archaic machines,
including the DEC PDP-10 (to which he probably still has access somewhere). He is a
brilliant programmer.
Dennis Ritchie, Ken Thompson, and Brian Kernighan Ritchie - , Thompson, and
Kernighan are programmers at Bell Labs, and all were instrumental in the development of
the UNIX operating system and the C programming language. Take these three
individuals out of the picture, and there would likely be no Internet (or if there were, it
would be a lot less functional). They still hack today. (For example, Ritchie is busy
working on Plan 9 from Bell Labs, a new operating system that will probably supplant
UNIX as the industry-standard super-networking operating system.)
Paul Baran, Rand Corporation Baran is probably the greatest hacker of them all for
one fundamental reason: He was hacking the Internet before the Internet even existed. He
hacked the concept, and his efforts provided a rough navigational tool that served to
inspire those who followed him.
Eugene Spafford Spafford is a professor of computer science, celebrated for his work at
Purdue University and elsewhere. He was instrumental in creating the Computer Oracle
Password and Security System (COPS), a semi-automated system of securing your
network. Spafford has turned out some very prominent students over the years and his
name is intensely respected in the field.
Dan Farmer Farmer worked with Spafford on COPS (Release 1991) while at Carnegie
Mellon University with the Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT). For real
details, see Purdue University Technical Report CSD-TR-993, written by Eugene
Spafford and Daniel Farmer. (Yes, Dan, the byline says Daniel Farmer.) Farmer later
gained national notoriety for releasing the System Administrator Tool for Analyzing
Networks (SATAN), a powerful tool for analyzing remote networks for security
vulnerabilities.
Wietse Venema Venema hails from the Eindhoven University of Technology in the
Netherlands. He is an exceptionally gifted programmer who has a long history of writing
industry-standard security tools. He co-authored SATAN with Farmer and wrote TCP
Wrapper, one of the commonly used security programs in the world. (This program
provides close control and monitoring of information packets coming from the void.)
Linus Torvalds A most extraordinary individual, Torvalds enrolled in classes on UNIX
and the C programming language in the early 1990s. One year later, he began writing a
UNIX-like operating system. Within a year, he released this system to the Internet (it was
called Linux). Today, Linux has a cult following and has the distinction of being the only
operating system ever developed by software programmers all over the world, many of
whom will never meet one another. Linux is free from copyright restrictions and is
available free to anyone with Internet access.
Bill Gates and Paul Allen From their high school days, these men from Washington
were hacking software. Both are skilled programmers. Starting in 1980, they built the
largest and most successful software empire on Earth. Their commercial successes
include MS-DOS, Microsoft Windows, Windows 95, and Windows NT.
The Crackers
Kevin Mitnik Mitnik, also known as Condor, is probably the world's best-known
cracker. Mitnik began his career as a phone phreak. Since those early years, Mitnik has
successfully cracked every manner of secure site you can imagine, including but not
limited to military sites, financial corporations, software firms, and other technology
companies. (When he was still a teen, Mitnik cracked the North American Aerospace
Defense Command.) At the time of this writing, he is awaiting trial on federal charges
stemming from attacks committed in 1994-1995
Kevin Poulsen Having followed a path quite similar to Mitnik, Poulsen is best known for
his uncanny ability to seize control of the Pacific Bell telephone system. (Poulsen once
used this talent to win a radio contest where the prize was a Porsche. He manipulated the
telephone lines so that his call would be the wining one.) Poulsen has also broken nearly
every type of site, but has a special penchant for sites containing defense data. This
greatly complicated his last period of incarceration, which lasted five years. (This is the
longest period ever served by a hacker in the United States.) Poulsen was released in
1996 and has apparently reformed.
Justin Tanner Peterson Known as Agent Steal, Peterson is probably most celebrated for
cracking a prominent consumer credit agency. Peterson appeared to be motivated by
money instead of curiosity. This lack of personal philosophy led to his downfall and the
downfall of others. For example, once caught, Peterson ratted out his friends, including
Kevin Poulsen. Peterson then obtained a deal with the FBI to work undercover. This
secured his release and he subsequently absconded, going on a crime spree that ended
with a failed attempt to secure a six-figure fraudulent wire transfer.
Why Do Crackers Exist?
Why Do Crackers Exist?
Crackers exist because they must. Because human nature is just so, frequently driven by a
desire to destroy instead of create. No more complex explanation need be given. The only
issue here is what type of cracker we are talking about.
Some crackers crack for profit. These may land on the battlefield, squarely between two
competing companies. Perhaps Company A wants to disable the site of Company B.
There are crackers for hire. They will break into almost any type of system you like, for a
price. Some of these crackers get involved with criminal schemes, such as retrieving lists
of TRW profiles. These are then used to apply for credit cards under the names of those
on the list. Other common pursuits are cell-phone cloning, piracy schemes, and garden-
variety fraud. Other crackers are kids who demonstrate an extraordinary ability to
assimilate highly technical computer knowledge. They may just be getting their kicks at
the expense of their targets.
Crackers exist because they must. Because human nature is just so, frequently driven by a
desire to destroy instead of create. No more complex explanation need be given. The only
issue here is what type of cracker we are talking about.
Some crackers crack for profit. These may land on the battlefield, squarely between two
competing companies. Perhaps Company A wants to disable the site of Company B.
There are crackers for hire. They will break into almost any type of system you like, for a
price. Some of these crackers get involved with criminal schemes, such as retrieving lists
of TRW profiles. These are then used to apply for credit cards under the names of those
on the list. Other common pursuits are cell-phone cloning, piracy schemes, and garden-
variety fraud. Other crackers are kids who demonstrate an extraordinary ability to
assimilate highly technical computer knowledge. They may just be getting their kicks at
the expense of their targets.
Where Did This All Start
Where Did This All Start?
A complete historical account of cracking is beyond the scope of this book. However, a
little background couldn't hurt. It started with telephone technology. Originally, a handful
of kids across the nation were cracking the telephone system. This practice was referred
to as phreaking. Phreaking is now recognized as any act by which to circumvent the
security of the telephone company. (Although, in reality, phreaking is more about
learning how the telephone system works and then manipulating it.)
Telephone phreaks employed different methods to accomplish this task. Early
implementations involved the use of ratshack dialers, or red boxes. (Ratshack was a term
to refer to the popular electronics store Radio Shack.) These were hand-held electronic
devices that transmitted digital sounds or tones. Phreakers altered these off-the-shelf tone
dialers by replacing the internal crystals with Radio Shack part #43-146.
_________________________________________________________________________________________
NOTE: Part #43-146 was a crystal, available at many neighborhood electronics stores
throughout the country. One could use either a 6.5MHz or 6.5536 crystal. This was used
to replace the crystal that shipped with the dialer (3.579545MHz). The alteration process
took approximately 5 minutes.
_________________________________________________________________________________________
Having made these modifications, they programmed in the sounds of quarters being
inserted into a pay telephone. From there, the remaining steps were simple. Phreaks went
to a pay telephone and dialed a number. The telephone would request payment for the
call. In response, the phreak would use the red box to emulate money being inserted into
the machine. This resulted in obtaining free telephone service at most pay telephones.
Schematics and very precise instructions for constructing such devices are at thousands of
sites on the Internet. The practice became so common that in many states, the mere
possession of a tone dialer altered in such a manner was grounds for search, seizure, and
arrest. As time went on, the technology in this area became more and more advanced.
New boxes like the red box were developed. The term boxing came to replace the term
phreaking, at least in general conversation, and boxing became exceedingly popular. This
resulted in even further advances, until an entire suite of boxes was developed. Table 3.1
lists a few of these boxes.
Table 3.1. Boxes and their uses.
_________________________________________________________________________________________
|Box What It Does
|
|Blue Seizes trunk lines using a 2600MHz tone, thereby granting the boxer the same |privileges as the
|
|average operator
|
|Dayglo Allows the user to connect to and utilize his or her neighbor's telephone line
|
|Aqua Reportedly circumvents FBI taps and traces by draining the voltage on the line
|
|Mauve Used to tap another telephone line
|
|Chrome Seizes control of traffic signals
|__________________________________________________________________________________________
There are at least 40 different boxes or devices within this class. Each was designed to
perform a different function. Many of the techniques employed are no longer effective.
For example, blue boxing has been seriously curtailed because of new electronically
switched telephone systems. (Although reportedly, one can still blue box in parts of the
country where older trunk lines can be found.) At a certain stage of the proceedings,
telephone phreaking and computer programming were combined; this marriage produced
some powerful tools. One example is BlueBEEP, an all-purpose phreaking/hacking tool.
BlueBEEP combines many different aspects of the phreaking trade, including the red
box. Essentially, in an area where the local telephone lines are old style, BlueBEEP
provides the user with awesome power over the telephone system.
It looks a lot like any legitimate application, the type anyone might buy at his or her localsoftware outlet. To its author's credit, it operates as well as or better than most
commercial software. BlueBEEP runs in a DOS environment, or through a DOS shell
window in either Windows 95 or Windows NT. I should say this before continuing: To
date, BlueBEEP is the most finely programmed phreaking tool ever coded. The author,
then a resident of Germany, reported that the application was written primarily in
PASCAL and assembly language. In any event, contained within the program are many,
many options for control of trunk lines, generation of digital tones, scanning of telephone
exchanges, and so on. It is probably the most comprehensive tool of its kind. However, I
am getting ahead of the time. BlueBEEP was actually created quite late in the game. We
must venture back several years to see how telephone phreaking led to Internet cracking.
The process was a natural one. Phone phreaks tried almost anything they could to find
new systems. Phreaks often searched telephone lines for interesting tones or connections.
Some of those connections turned out to be modems.
No one can tell when it was--that instant when a telephone phreak first logged on to the
Internet. However, the process probably occurred more by chance than skill. Years ago,
Point- to-Point Protocol (PPP) was not available. Therefore, the way a phreak would have
found the Internet is debatable. It probably happened after one of them, by direct-dial
connection, logged in to a mainframe or workstation somewhere in the void. This
machine was likely connected to the Internet via Ethernet, a second modem, or another
port. Thus, the targeted machine acted as a bridge between the phreak and the Internet.
After the phreak crossed that bridge, he or she was dropped into a world teeming with
computers, most of which had poor or sometimes no security. Imagine that for a moment:
an unexplored frontier.
What remains is history. Since then, crackers have broken their way into every type of
system imaginable. During the 1980s, truly gifted programmers began cropping up as
crackers. It was during this period that the distinction between hackers and crackers was
first confused, and it has remained so every since. By the late 1980s, these individuals
were becoming newsworthy and the media dubbed those who breached system security
as hackers.
Then an event occurred that would forever focus America's computing community on
these hackers. On November 2, 1988, someone released a worm into the network. This
worm was a self-replicating program that sought out vulnerable machines and infected
them. Having infected a vulnerable machine, the worm would go into the wild, searching
for additional targets. This process continued until thousands of machines were infected.
Within hours, the Internet was under heavy siege. In a now celebrated paper that provides
a blow-by-blow analysis of the worm incident ("Tour of the Worm"), Donn Seeley, then
at the Department of Computer Science at the University of Utah, wrote:
___________________________________________________________________________________________
November 3, 1988 is already coming to be known as Black Thursday. System administrators
around the country came to work on that day and discovered that their networks of computers
were laboring under a huge load. If they were able to log in and generate a system status listing,
they saw what appeared to be dozens or hundreds of "shell" (command interpreter) processes. If
they tried to kill the processes, they found that new processes appeared faster than they could kill
them.
___________________________________________________________________________________________
The worm was apparently released from a machine at the Massachusetts Institute of
Technology. Reportedly, the logging system on that machine was either working
incorrectly or was not properly configured and thus, the perpetrator left no trail. (Seely
reports that the first infections included the Artificial Intelligence Laboratory at MIT, the
University of California at Berkeley, and the RAND Corporation in California.) As one
might expect, the computing community was initially in a state of shock. However, as
Eugene Spafford, a renowned computer science professor from Purdue University,
explained in his paper "The Internet Worm: An Analysis," that state of shock didn't last
long. Programmers at both ends of the country were working feverishly to find a solution:
___________________________________________________________________________________________
By late Wednesday night, personnel at the University of California at Berkeley and at
Massachusetts Institute of Technology had `captured' copies of the program and began to analyze
it. People at other sites also began to study the program and were developing methods of
eradicating it.
___________________________________________________________________________________________
An unlikely candidate would come under suspicion: a young man studying computer
science at Cornell University. This particular young man was an unlikely candidate for
two reasons. First, he was a good student without any background that would suggest
such behavior. Second, and more importantly, the young man's father, an engineer with
Bell Labs, had a profound influence on the Internet's design. Nevertheless, the young
man, Robert Morris Jr., was indeed the perpetrator. Reportedly, Morris expected his
program to spread at a very slow rate, its effects being perhaps even imperceptible.
However, as Brendan Kehoe notes in his book Zen and the Art of the Internet:
___________________________________________________________________________________________
Morris soon discovered that the program was replicating and reinfecting machines at a much faster
rate than he had anticipated--there was a bug. Ultimately, many machines at locations around the
country either crashed or became `catatonic.' When Morris realized what was happening, he
contacted a friend at Harvard to discuss a solution. Eventually, they sent an anonymous message
from Harvard over the network, instructing programmers how to kill the worm and prevent
reinfection.
___________________________________________________________________________________________
Morris was tried and convicted under federal statutes, receiving three years probation and
a substantial fine. An unsuccessful appeal followed.
The introduction of the Morris Worm changed many attitudes about Internet security. A
single program had virtually disabled hundreds (or perhaps thousands) of machines. That
day marked the beginning of serious Internet security. Moreover, the event helped to
forever seal the fate of hackers. Since that point, legitimate programmers have had to
rigorously defend their hacker titles. The media has largely neglected to correct this
misconception. Even today, the national press refers to crackers as hackers, thus
perpetuating the misunderstanding. That will never change and hence, hackers will have
to find another term by which to classify themselves.
Does it matter? Not really. Many people charge that true hackers are splitting hairs, that
their rigid distinctions are too complex and inconvenient for the public. Perhaps there is
some truth to that. For it has been many years since the terms were first used
interchangeably (and erroneously). At this stage, it is a matter of principle only.
A complete historical account of cracking is beyond the scope of this book. However, a
little background couldn't hurt. It started with telephone technology. Originally, a handful
of kids across the nation were cracking the telephone system. This practice was referred
to as phreaking. Phreaking is now recognized as any act by which to circumvent the
security of the telephone company. (Although, in reality, phreaking is more about
learning how the telephone system works and then manipulating it.)
Telephone phreaks employed different methods to accomplish this task. Early
implementations involved the use of ratshack dialers, or red boxes. (Ratshack was a term
to refer to the popular electronics store Radio Shack.) These were hand-held electronic
devices that transmitted digital sounds or tones. Phreakers altered these off-the-shelf tone
dialers by replacing the internal crystals with Radio Shack part #43-146.
_________________________________________________________________________________________
NOTE: Part #43-146 was a crystal, available at many neighborhood electronics stores
throughout the country. One could use either a 6.5MHz or 6.5536 crystal. This was used
to replace the crystal that shipped with the dialer (3.579545MHz). The alteration process
took approximately 5 minutes.
_________________________________________________________________________________________
Having made these modifications, they programmed in the sounds of quarters being
inserted into a pay telephone. From there, the remaining steps were simple. Phreaks went
to a pay telephone and dialed a number. The telephone would request payment for the
call. In response, the phreak would use the red box to emulate money being inserted into
the machine. This resulted in obtaining free telephone service at most pay telephones.
Schematics and very precise instructions for constructing such devices are at thousands of
sites on the Internet. The practice became so common that in many states, the mere
possession of a tone dialer altered in such a manner was grounds for search, seizure, and
arrest. As time went on, the technology in this area became more and more advanced.
New boxes like the red box were developed. The term boxing came to replace the term
phreaking, at least in general conversation, and boxing became exceedingly popular. This
resulted in even further advances, until an entire suite of boxes was developed. Table 3.1
lists a few of these boxes.
Table 3.1. Boxes and their uses.
_________________________________________________________________________________________
|Box What It Does
|
|Blue Seizes trunk lines using a 2600MHz tone, thereby granting the boxer the same |privileges as the
|
|average operator
|
|Dayglo Allows the user to connect to and utilize his or her neighbor's telephone line
|
|Aqua Reportedly circumvents FBI taps and traces by draining the voltage on the line
|
|Mauve Used to tap another telephone line
|
|Chrome Seizes control of traffic signals
|__________________________________________________________________________________________
There are at least 40 different boxes or devices within this class. Each was designed to
perform a different function. Many of the techniques employed are no longer effective.
For example, blue boxing has been seriously curtailed because of new electronically
switched telephone systems. (Although reportedly, one can still blue box in parts of the
country where older trunk lines can be found.) At a certain stage of the proceedings,
telephone phreaking and computer programming were combined; this marriage produced
some powerful tools. One example is BlueBEEP, an all-purpose phreaking/hacking tool.
BlueBEEP combines many different aspects of the phreaking trade, including the red
box. Essentially, in an area where the local telephone lines are old style, BlueBEEP
provides the user with awesome power over the telephone system.
It looks a lot like any legitimate application, the type anyone might buy at his or her localsoftware outlet. To its author's credit, it operates as well as or better than most
commercial software. BlueBEEP runs in a DOS environment, or through a DOS shell
window in either Windows 95 or Windows NT. I should say this before continuing: To
date, BlueBEEP is the most finely programmed phreaking tool ever coded. The author,
then a resident of Germany, reported that the application was written primarily in
PASCAL and assembly language. In any event, contained within the program are many,
many options for control of trunk lines, generation of digital tones, scanning of telephone
exchanges, and so on. It is probably the most comprehensive tool of its kind. However, I
am getting ahead of the time. BlueBEEP was actually created quite late in the game. We
must venture back several years to see how telephone phreaking led to Internet cracking.
The process was a natural one. Phone phreaks tried almost anything they could to find
new systems. Phreaks often searched telephone lines for interesting tones or connections.
Some of those connections turned out to be modems.
No one can tell when it was--that instant when a telephone phreak first logged on to the
Internet. However, the process probably occurred more by chance than skill. Years ago,
Point- to-Point Protocol (PPP) was not available. Therefore, the way a phreak would have
found the Internet is debatable. It probably happened after one of them, by direct-dial
connection, logged in to a mainframe or workstation somewhere in the void. This
machine was likely connected to the Internet via Ethernet, a second modem, or another
port. Thus, the targeted machine acted as a bridge between the phreak and the Internet.
After the phreak crossed that bridge, he or she was dropped into a world teeming with
computers, most of which had poor or sometimes no security. Imagine that for a moment:
an unexplored frontier.
What remains is history. Since then, crackers have broken their way into every type of
system imaginable. During the 1980s, truly gifted programmers began cropping up as
crackers. It was during this period that the distinction between hackers and crackers was
first confused, and it has remained so every since. By the late 1980s, these individuals
were becoming newsworthy and the media dubbed those who breached system security
as hackers.
Then an event occurred that would forever focus America's computing community on
these hackers. On November 2, 1988, someone released a worm into the network. This
worm was a self-replicating program that sought out vulnerable machines and infected
them. Having infected a vulnerable machine, the worm would go into the wild, searching
for additional targets. This process continued until thousands of machines were infected.
Within hours, the Internet was under heavy siege. In a now celebrated paper that provides
a blow-by-blow analysis of the worm incident ("Tour of the Worm"), Donn Seeley, then
at the Department of Computer Science at the University of Utah, wrote:
___________________________________________________________________________________________
November 3, 1988 is already coming to be known as Black Thursday. System administrators
around the country came to work on that day and discovered that their networks of computers
were laboring under a huge load. If they were able to log in and generate a system status listing,
they saw what appeared to be dozens or hundreds of "shell" (command interpreter) processes. If
they tried to kill the processes, they found that new processes appeared faster than they could kill
them.
___________________________________________________________________________________________
The worm was apparently released from a machine at the Massachusetts Institute of
Technology. Reportedly, the logging system on that machine was either working
incorrectly or was not properly configured and thus, the perpetrator left no trail. (Seely
reports that the first infections included the Artificial Intelligence Laboratory at MIT, the
University of California at Berkeley, and the RAND Corporation in California.) As one
might expect, the computing community was initially in a state of shock. However, as
Eugene Spafford, a renowned computer science professor from Purdue University,
explained in his paper "The Internet Worm: An Analysis," that state of shock didn't last
long. Programmers at both ends of the country were working feverishly to find a solution:
___________________________________________________________________________________________
By late Wednesday night, personnel at the University of California at Berkeley and at
Massachusetts Institute of Technology had `captured' copies of the program and began to analyze
it. People at other sites also began to study the program and were developing methods of
eradicating it.
___________________________________________________________________________________________
An unlikely candidate would come under suspicion: a young man studying computer
science at Cornell University. This particular young man was an unlikely candidate for
two reasons. First, he was a good student without any background that would suggest
such behavior. Second, and more importantly, the young man's father, an engineer with
Bell Labs, had a profound influence on the Internet's design. Nevertheless, the young
man, Robert Morris Jr., was indeed the perpetrator. Reportedly, Morris expected his
program to spread at a very slow rate, its effects being perhaps even imperceptible.
However, as Brendan Kehoe notes in his book Zen and the Art of the Internet:
___________________________________________________________________________________________
Morris soon discovered that the program was replicating and reinfecting machines at a much faster
rate than he had anticipated--there was a bug. Ultimately, many machines at locations around the
country either crashed or became `catatonic.' When Morris realized what was happening, he
contacted a friend at Harvard to discuss a solution. Eventually, they sent an anonymous message
from Harvard over the network, instructing programmers how to kill the worm and prevent
reinfection.
___________________________________________________________________________________________
Morris was tried and convicted under federal statutes, receiving three years probation and
a substantial fine. An unsuccessful appeal followed.
The introduction of the Morris Worm changed many attitudes about Internet security. A
single program had virtually disabled hundreds (or perhaps thousands) of machines. That
day marked the beginning of serious Internet security. Moreover, the event helped to
forever seal the fate of hackers. Since that point, legitimate programmers have had to
rigorously defend their hacker titles. The media has largely neglected to correct this
misconception. Even today, the national press refers to crackers as hackers, thus
perpetuating the misunderstanding. That will never change and hence, hackers will have
to find another term by which to classify themselves.
Does it matter? Not really. Many people charge that true hackers are splitting hairs, that
their rigid distinctions are too complex and inconvenient for the public. Perhaps there is
some truth to that. For it has been many years since the terms were first used
interchangeably (and erroneously). At this stage, it is a matter of principle only.
Ultra-mobile PCs
Ultra-mobile PCs
Pocket PC devices and smart phones have
put the computer in our palms and pockets.
Use any of these devices for a week and
youll discover that they dont quite match up
to the power and performance of a desktop PC
or notebook. Now wouldnt it be nice to have a
device that costs less than a budget notebook
but with the same computing power, and yet
small enough to ? t in a coat pocket? In fact, there
isprototypes were recently unveiled at two
industry events.
Microsoft, Intel, Samsung, Asus and Founder
are working on a new platform: a miniature tablet
PC dubbed the Ultra Mobile PC (UMPC).
Microsoft tried to create some buzz through
its Project Origami initiative. In fact, it created a
www.origamiproject.com/1/)
teaser web site (
that generated many blog discussions.
www.umpc.com/).
Intel also set up a web site (
It purports to pack in everything from digital
music to wireless Internet into this PC with a very
small form factor.
At IDF in the second week of March, Intel
unveiled UMPC designs. Samsung and others
showed off their prototypes at the CeBit
technology show in Germany (March 9 -15). At
? rst glance, these appear to be smaller versions
of the Tablet PC. The prototypes have 7-inch
touchscreens and standard Intel Pentium M
processors. They can run full versions of Windows
XP tablet PC edition. New Windows Touch Pack
software takes care of the touchscreen functions.
Wonderful, but is the idea of take-along PCs
entirely fresh? I recall a particular advertisement
that appeared in computer magazines in the
www.ergo-computing.
90s. Ergo Computing (
) advertised a product called fiThe Brickfl. At
com
that time they were offering a PC with an Intel
80386 chip. Because of its small form factor, a
user could carry it home in his briefcase, hook
it up to a monitor and keyboard and continue
working late in the night. The only requirement:
two monitors and keyboards (one set installed
at either destination). That was before laptops
became mainstream.
Last year, we got an AMD Personal Internet
Communicator (PIC) into our Test Center. With its
dull grey boroplast-like shell it easily passed for
a fancy lunchbox or toolbox. But we found that
the PIC is indeed quite portable and has all the
necessary ports for connecting other devices.
We also saw portable media players like the
Sony PlayStation Portable (PSP) entering the grey
market. With their own storage media, built-in
screens and game pads, they offer the same thrill
as that of a gaming console.
I feel Intel and Microsoft want to create the
PC equivalent of the Sony PSP (or other portable
media players). But for UMPC to be a hit they will
need to carefully address the ergonomics and
other factors.
Keypad design is important. They will have to
master the art of putting all the essential keys
within a very limited space. Designers need to
consider key spacing and size. A clever slide out
keypad or soft keypad (onscreen) might do the
trick.
Storage is another important factor. A tiny 40
or 60 GB hard disk is what we expect. And how
about slots for removable media like SD cards or
Compact Flash? Internal memory? At least 256
MB, but that depends on the operating system
memory footprint.
A bright clear LCD display with a good
resolution comes next. Thats important for
computing in the outdoors.
What about battery life? The prototypes
shown at CeBIT could barely manage 3 hours.
Most of us would need a device that can run for a
full workday between charges. Ultra-low voltage
chips should do the trick.
And of course, it should have bells and whistles
like built-in track-pad/joystick, built-in stereo
speakers, audio-out, at least three USB ports
(one for a mouse), Video-Out (for connecting an
external monitor), and memory card slots.
The UMPC or mini tablet must have good
pricing too. Id say $500 (approx Rs 22,500)
would be a good entry-point. Thats lower than
a laptop. And a smart phone or Pocket PC costs
as much. I bet you are anxious to read more about
the UMPC.
Pocket PC devices and smart phones have
put the computer in our palms and pockets.
Use any of these devices for a week and
youll discover that they dont quite match up
to the power and performance of a desktop PC
or notebook. Now wouldnt it be nice to have a
device that costs less than a budget notebook
but with the same computing power, and yet
small enough to ? t in a coat pocket? In fact, there
isprototypes were recently unveiled at two
industry events.
Microsoft, Intel, Samsung, Asus and Founder
are working on a new platform: a miniature tablet
PC dubbed the Ultra Mobile PC (UMPC).
Microsoft tried to create some buzz through
its Project Origami initiative. In fact, it created a
www.origamiproject.com/1/)
teaser web site (
that generated many blog discussions.
www.umpc.com/).
Intel also set up a web site (
It purports to pack in everything from digital
music to wireless Internet into this PC with a very
small form factor.
At IDF in the second week of March, Intel
unveiled UMPC designs. Samsung and others
showed off their prototypes at the CeBit
technology show in Germany (March 9 -15). At
? rst glance, these appear to be smaller versions
of the Tablet PC. The prototypes have 7-inch
touchscreens and standard Intel Pentium M
processors. They can run full versions of Windows
XP tablet PC edition. New Windows Touch Pack
software takes care of the touchscreen functions.
Wonderful, but is the idea of take-along PCs
entirely fresh? I recall a particular advertisement
that appeared in computer magazines in the
www.ergo-computing.
90s. Ergo Computing (
) advertised a product called fiThe Brickfl. At
com
that time they were offering a PC with an Intel
80386 chip. Because of its small form factor, a
user could carry it home in his briefcase, hook
it up to a monitor and keyboard and continue
working late in the night. The only requirement:
two monitors and keyboards (one set installed
at either destination). That was before laptops
became mainstream.
Last year, we got an AMD Personal Internet
Communicator (PIC) into our Test Center. With its
dull grey boroplast-like shell it easily passed for
a fancy lunchbox or toolbox. But we found that
the PIC is indeed quite portable and has all the
necessary ports for connecting other devices.
We also saw portable media players like the
Sony PlayStation Portable (PSP) entering the grey
market. With their own storage media, built-in
screens and game pads, they offer the same thrill
as that of a gaming console.
I feel Intel and Microsoft want to create the
PC equivalent of the Sony PSP (or other portable
media players). But for UMPC to be a hit they will
need to carefully address the ergonomics and
other factors.
Keypad design is important. They will have to
master the art of putting all the essential keys
within a very limited space. Designers need to
consider key spacing and size. A clever slide out
keypad or soft keypad (onscreen) might do the
trick.
Storage is another important factor. A tiny 40
or 60 GB hard disk is what we expect. And how
about slots for removable media like SD cards or
Compact Flash? Internal memory? At least 256
MB, but that depends on the operating system
memory footprint.
A bright clear LCD display with a good
resolution comes next. Thats important for
computing in the outdoors.
What about battery life? The prototypes
shown at CeBIT could barely manage 3 hours.
Most of us would need a device that can run for a
full workday between charges. Ultra-low voltage
chips should do the trick.
And of course, it should have bells and whistles
like built-in track-pad/joystick, built-in stereo
speakers, audio-out, at least three USB ports
(one for a mouse), Video-Out (for connecting an
external monitor), and memory card slots.
The UMPC or mini tablet must have good
pricing too. Id say $500 (approx Rs 22,500)
would be a good entry-point. Thats lower than
a laptop. And a smart phone or Pocket PC costs
as much. I bet you are anxious to read more about
the UMPC.
Your photos everywhere
Your photos everywhere
To use Jet Photo Studio 2 you need to
first import your digital images into
Jet Photo albums. This is done by the
large button on the main interface. After
dragging and dropping folders or individual
files from your hard disk, a new album is
created. There is no support for RAW or
TIFF files but these files are automatically
converted into JPEG format while importing.
The interface consists of two partsa
left panel that contains the thumbnails of
the photos in the album and a panel on the
right that displays a range of information.
Beside thumbnails, you can view entire
albums or view individual images in the
left viewing panel. On the right, you can
view the image file information (such as the
photo details as recorded by the camera or
scanner), you can add notes to photos and
tag them with indicative words that can
later be used to search for similar sets of
photos based on de? ning characteristics.
Since the images are automatically
organized by date, it is easy to search for
photos youve taken between date ranges.
More than the photo management
capabilities, it incorporates GPS support
by integrating GPS information with the
timestamps of the photos in its albums.
The application recognizes handheld
GPS devices like those from Garmin and
Magellan. It even allows downloading maps
from online map resources. The JetPhoto
Server feature is an open source photo
publishing service that allows publishing
to online personal photo albums. It even
resizes your photos before publishing to
the web. When it comes to sharing your
photos, you can create images for a variety
of devices such as a PDAs or cell phones.
This functionality is enabled through the
MobileReady feature that allows you to
select portions of your photos to fit into
smaller screens.
For: Plenty of functionality for publishing
or exporting your photos to other devices;
free.
Against: No support for TIFF or RAW ? les.
To use Jet Photo Studio 2 you need to
first import your digital images into
Jet Photo albums. This is done by the
large button on the main interface. After
dragging and dropping folders or individual
files from your hard disk, a new album is
created. There is no support for RAW or
TIFF files but these files are automatically
converted into JPEG format while importing.
The interface consists of two partsa
left panel that contains the thumbnails of
the photos in the album and a panel on the
right that displays a range of information.
Beside thumbnails, you can view entire
albums or view individual images in the
left viewing panel. On the right, you can
view the image file information (such as the
photo details as recorded by the camera or
scanner), you can add notes to photos and
tag them with indicative words that can
later be used to search for similar sets of
photos based on de? ning characteristics.
Since the images are automatically
organized by date, it is easy to search for
photos youve taken between date ranges.
More than the photo management
capabilities, it incorporates GPS support
by integrating GPS information with the
timestamps of the photos in its albums.
The application recognizes handheld
GPS devices like those from Garmin and
Magellan. It even allows downloading maps
from online map resources. The JetPhoto
Server feature is an open source photo
publishing service that allows publishing
to online personal photo albums. It even
resizes your photos before publishing to
the web. When it comes to sharing your
photos, you can create images for a variety
of devices such as a PDAs or cell phones.
This functionality is enabled through the
MobileReady feature that allows you to
select portions of your photos to fit into
smaller screens.
For: Plenty of functionality for publishing
or exporting your photos to other devices;
free.
Against: No support for TIFF or RAW ? les.
New Lenovo PCs
New Lenovo PCs
A new range of desktop PCs and
notebooks from Lenovo is here to
meet the needs of home users and small
businessmen. This new family called the
3000 series includes the 3000 Q and 3000
H desktops specifically for use at home, the
3000 J desktops for small businessmen and
the 3000 C series of laptops.
Lenovo intends to offer easy-to-use
technology with comprehensive service
and support. The 3000 Q desktops feature
a jog dial with digital media platform
that allows you to switch between music,
movies, games or television at the turn
of the dial. This series comes with an
integrated PC camera, the RedordNow
software for burning data, music and vide
CDs as well for burning data and movie
DVDs. The silent operation function helps
to counter the noise problem. The One
Touch Recovery function allows you to
recover your PC to its last backed-up state.
The 3000 Q is priced between Rs 55,990
and Rs 88,990. It is ideally suited for those
who are looking for a high-end lifestyle PC
The 3000 H comes with features
like One Touch Recovery on DOS, an
anti-bacterial keyboard, 17-inch ? at CRT
upgradeable to 15-inch TFT LCD or 17-inch
TFT LCD. The 3000 H series of desktops
will be available in the market for a price
ranging between Rs 29,490 to Rs 39,990.
The 3000 family of notebooks have
been designed combining Lenovos
ThinkPad-inspired technology with new
innovations. The Lenovo C notebooks have
been built keeping in mind mobile business
professionals. This series offers wireless
connectivity, built-in service tools and
multimedia features encased in a stylish an
functional design. These will be available
for a retail price (exclusive of taxes)
starting from Rs 35, 990 to Rs 49, 990.
Lenovos fiThinkfl line of
productsthe ThinkPad
and the ThinkCentre
PCswill come under the
realm of the fiThinkPlusfl
program. These products
(along with 3000 J and
3000 C series)
will be serviced
by IBM.
A new range of desktop PCs and
notebooks from Lenovo is here to
meet the needs of home users and small
businessmen. This new family called the
3000 series includes the 3000 Q and 3000
H desktops specifically for use at home, the
3000 J desktops for small businessmen and
the 3000 C series of laptops.
Lenovo intends to offer easy-to-use
technology with comprehensive service
and support. The 3000 Q desktops feature
a jog dial with digital media platform
that allows you to switch between music,
movies, games or television at the turn
of the dial. This series comes with an
integrated PC camera, the RedordNow
software for burning data, music and vide
CDs as well for burning data and movie
DVDs. The silent operation function helps
to counter the noise problem. The One
Touch Recovery function allows you to
recover your PC to its last backed-up state.
The 3000 Q is priced between Rs 55,990
and Rs 88,990. It is ideally suited for those
who are looking for a high-end lifestyle PC
The 3000 H comes with features
like One Touch Recovery on DOS, an
anti-bacterial keyboard, 17-inch ? at CRT
upgradeable to 15-inch TFT LCD or 17-inch
TFT LCD. The 3000 H series of desktops
will be available in the market for a price
ranging between Rs 29,490 to Rs 39,990.
The 3000 family of notebooks have
been designed combining Lenovos
ThinkPad-inspired technology with new
innovations. The Lenovo C notebooks have
been built keeping in mind mobile business
professionals. This series offers wireless
connectivity, built-in service tools and
multimedia features encased in a stylish an
functional design. These will be available
for a retail price (exclusive of taxes)
starting from Rs 35, 990 to Rs 49, 990.
Lenovos fiThinkfl line of
productsthe ThinkPad
and the ThinkCentre
PCswill come under the
realm of the fiThinkPlusfl
program. These products
(along with 3000 J and
3000 C series)
will be serviced
by IBM.
Thin and light audio
Thin and light audio
With most of your personal MP3
collections spanning several
gigabytes, its all to easy to get lost in all of
that music. Over time, we tend to listen to
only the newest tracks or to those that are
most easily accessible. Some music players
such as Apples iTunes changed this by
allowing your music ? les to be tagged and
called up in a way that enabled easy acces
and more thorough access to your audio
and video collection.
Like its name, the Quintessential Media
Player is a nifty little tool that aims to be
a one-stop audio ? le management and
playback tool. Coming in at a mere 3 MB,
its one of the smallest audio players you
can download. After using this player for a
while, we found it is also one of the most
feature-packed. Besides support for video
standards like MPEG, M2V, M1V, AVI, WMV
and ASF, it does everything from organizin
your digital audio ? les (MP3, WMA, Ogg,
WAV etc) ? les based upon parameters
such as ? le names, artistes, albums, genre,
duration, etc. It allows you to tag audio
files and then sort them according to any
of these parameters. It supports queuing
of tracks, cross fading, creating playlists,
visualizations, etc. You can also rip your
audio CDs to MP3, OGG, WAV or WMA
using various constant and variable bitrate
settings. You can even use it to record
directly from your soundcards line-in
port. The built-in Gracenote functionality
allows the application to pull down album
information from the Internet during
ripping and audio CD playback.
The application is easy to use with
indicative icons and plenty of right-click
functionality. Learning its capabilities is
a snap as most functions are indicatively
labeled. Unfortunately, there are no
real help ? les and even the link to the
online web site results in a page under
construction.
With a good collection of audio and
video management capabilities, this is a
good digital audio playback application.
For: Plenty of audio playback; ripping
and management features; low system
requirements; free.
Against: Lack of help resources.
With most of your personal MP3
collections spanning several
gigabytes, its all to easy to get lost in all of
that music. Over time, we tend to listen to
only the newest tracks or to those that are
most easily accessible. Some music players
such as Apples iTunes changed this by
allowing your music ? les to be tagged and
called up in a way that enabled easy acces
and more thorough access to your audio
and video collection.
Like its name, the Quintessential Media
Player is a nifty little tool that aims to be
a one-stop audio ? le management and
playback tool. Coming in at a mere 3 MB,
its one of the smallest audio players you
can download. After using this player for a
while, we found it is also one of the most
feature-packed. Besides support for video
standards like MPEG, M2V, M1V, AVI, WMV
and ASF, it does everything from organizin
your digital audio ? les (MP3, WMA, Ogg,
WAV etc) ? les based upon parameters
such as ? le names, artistes, albums, genre,
duration, etc. It allows you to tag audio
files and then sort them according to any
of these parameters. It supports queuing
of tracks, cross fading, creating playlists,
visualizations, etc. You can also rip your
audio CDs to MP3, OGG, WAV or WMA
using various constant and variable bitrate
settings. You can even use it to record
directly from your soundcards line-in
port. The built-in Gracenote functionality
allows the application to pull down album
information from the Internet during
ripping and audio CD playback.
The application is easy to use with
indicative icons and plenty of right-click
functionality. Learning its capabilities is
a snap as most functions are indicatively
labeled. Unfortunately, there are no
real help ? les and even the link to the
online web site results in a page under
construction.
With a good collection of audio and
video management capabilities, this is a
good digital audio playback application.
For: Plenty of audio playback; ripping
and management features; low system
requirements; free.
Against: Lack of help resources.
Whose services do you want
Whose services do you want?
New York-based ABI Research has
assessed that this year will witness
signi? cant level of confusion in the
electronics market as newer services
of radio and multimedia broadcasting
cloud the market. This anarchy is because
at a time when consumers are just
getting accustomed to new satellite
radio broadcasting technologies, newer
protocols targeting the car radio segment
have already started hitting the market.
Forecasts from ABI Research indicated
that in North America alone there will
be ? ve different operational standards
including the existing XM, Syrius and
HD radio services followed by two
newnamely QUALCOMMs MediaFLO and
Crown Castles Modeo DVB-H. In Europe,
WorldSpace, ONDAS Media and Europa-
Max are ready for the competitive battle
as the existing Digital Audio Broadcasting
(DAB) services fails to offer pan-European
coverage. Not only Europe and America but
Korea also is in a whirlpool of confusion
with their newly launched terrestrial
and satellite based Digital Multimedia
Broadcasting (DMB) services.
Along with users, even the automobile
market is getting confused about which
standard they should follow for providing
car audio services. Automotive suppliers
are in a worse state, as they have to
be ready with their products following
certain protocols to meet the demands
of the automakers. For the suppliers, the
problem gets compounded as they have
to anticipate the market demand, which
is becoming next to impossible with a
? otilla of broadcasting protocols ? oating
all around.
ABI researchs new study called the
fiDigital Radio Automotive Marketsfl while
examining all major digital protocols
aims at addressing the problems of
the automotive market. The objective
of this study includes understanding
standardization efforts, market issues and
opportunities for each major region.
New York-based ABI Research has
assessed that this year will witness
signi? cant level of confusion in the
electronics market as newer services
of radio and multimedia broadcasting
cloud the market. This anarchy is because
at a time when consumers are just
getting accustomed to new satellite
radio broadcasting technologies, newer
protocols targeting the car radio segment
have already started hitting the market.
Forecasts from ABI Research indicated
that in North America alone there will
be ? ve different operational standards
including the existing XM, Syrius and
HD radio services followed by two
newnamely QUALCOMMs MediaFLO and
Crown Castles Modeo DVB-H. In Europe,
WorldSpace, ONDAS Media and Europa-
Max are ready for the competitive battle
as the existing Digital Audio Broadcasting
(DAB) services fails to offer pan-European
coverage. Not only Europe and America but
Korea also is in a whirlpool of confusion
with their newly launched terrestrial
and satellite based Digital Multimedia
Broadcasting (DMB) services.
Along with users, even the automobile
market is getting confused about which
standard they should follow for providing
car audio services. Automotive suppliers
are in a worse state, as they have to
be ready with their products following
certain protocols to meet the demands
of the automakers. For the suppliers, the
problem gets compounded as they have
to anticipate the market demand, which
is becoming next to impossible with a
? otilla of broadcasting protocols ? oating
all around.
ABI researchs new study called the
fiDigital Radio Automotive Marketsfl while
examining all major digital protocols
aims at addressing the problems of
the automotive market. The objective
of this study includes understanding
standardization efforts, market issues and
opportunities for each major region.
Pass your resume through the web
Pass your resume through the web
So you thought you got the job after
your employer screened your resume?
Wrong. Even before your CV landed
on his table, somebody was doing the
job of shortlisting candidates for him.
Your application for the job will not hit
the mailbox of the of? cer in charge of
recruiting before passing through an online
? lter program. This program sorts your
resume and ? gures out whether you are
suitable for the job or not.
Based on responses to certain
preset parameters like ? exibility
of relocation, the online
resume ? lter application
may reject a pro? le outright
if the answer is found to
be negative. Similarly,
the application assigns
positive or negative weightage
to certain responses, which are then
evaluated to ? gure out whether a pro? le is
a match or not.
Going forward, this program also states
why a resume has been rejected. It can also
be con? gured to send auto reply to the
rejected applicants stating the reason for
rejection. This can help the applicants work
on the factors stated in the reply.
The resume ? ltering technology is
already in use to reduce the hassle of initial
screening. This saves the employer time
and gives him more resumes matching a
position.
Some companies have such programs
integrated to their corporate web sites.
For instance, T-Mobile has a cartoon dog
named Fetch, which hunts
for prospective employees
and sends e-mails to the
applicants if there is a
vacancy. Coca Cola, on the
other hand, uses its web site
as a kind of an online shopping
mall for job hunters. Applicants
can go to options like Add this
job to my cart or E-mail this job
to a friend or Submit my pro? le.
Florida-based Vruv Technology is the ? rst
on the list of such application providers.
About 300 companies who have used
the Vruv software have found it easier to
employ, and more so during emergency
recruitments.
So you thought you got the job after
your employer screened your resume?
Wrong. Even before your CV landed
on his table, somebody was doing the
job of shortlisting candidates for him.
Your application for the job will not hit
the mailbox of the of? cer in charge of
recruiting before passing through an online
? lter program. This program sorts your
resume and ? gures out whether you are
suitable for the job or not.
Based on responses to certain
preset parameters like ? exibility
of relocation, the online
resume ? lter application
may reject a pro? le outright
if the answer is found to
be negative. Similarly,
the application assigns
positive or negative weightage
to certain responses, which are then
evaluated to ? gure out whether a pro? le is
a match or not.
Going forward, this program also states
why a resume has been rejected. It can also
be con? gured to send auto reply to the
rejected applicants stating the reason for
rejection. This can help the applicants work
on the factors stated in the reply.
The resume ? ltering technology is
already in use to reduce the hassle of initial
screening. This saves the employer time
and gives him more resumes matching a
position.
Some companies have such programs
integrated to their corporate web sites.
For instance, T-Mobile has a cartoon dog
named Fetch, which hunts
for prospective employees
and sends e-mails to the
applicants if there is a
vacancy. Coca Cola, on the
other hand, uses its web site
as a kind of an online shopping
mall for job hunters. Applicants
can go to options like Add this
job to my cart or E-mail this job
to a friend or Submit my pro? le.
Florida-based Vruv Technology is the ? rst
on the list of such application providers.
About 300 companies who have used
the Vruv software have found it easier to
employ, and more so during emergency
recruitments.
Sing-along shoes
Sing-along shoes
Cool music and cool shoes now go
together. Literally. California-based
Dada Footwear has launched a wireless
shoe based on their proprietary technolog
CodeM that allows an MP3 player to
converge with a sport shoe. Based on
wireless technology, the application is
capable of transferring audio as well as
data. The footwear was showcased at
the World Shoe and Accessories Show at
Las Vegas.
You will be able to listen to music with
the help of the bundled wireless headset
within a range of nine meters, which
means even after you remove the
shoes, you can still continue listening
to music. The player is capable of
storing 100 songs and the battery
gives six hours of continuous listening
The hardware is integrated within
the tongue and the heel of the shoe.
The shoe has a USB port on the lateral
side for plugging in the storage device
and battery charger.
Manufacturers of Dada Footwear are
excited about their upcoming Get-? t and
Get-smart shoes. While Get-? t will deliver
nformation on how to work out better in a
trainers voice to the wearer, the Get-smart
shoe will forward phone calls from a cell
phone to the CodeM headset.
Dada shoes are targeted towards the age
group of 12-25 years. The CodeM footwear
s available in the market at a retail price of
$199.99.
Cool music and cool shoes now go
together. Literally. California-based
Dada Footwear has launched a wireless
shoe based on their proprietary technolog
CodeM that allows an MP3 player to
converge with a sport shoe. Based on
wireless technology, the application is
capable of transferring audio as well as
data. The footwear was showcased at
the World Shoe and Accessories Show at
Las Vegas.
You will be able to listen to music with
the help of the bundled wireless headset
within a range of nine meters, which
means even after you remove the
shoes, you can still continue listening
to music. The player is capable of
storing 100 songs and the battery
gives six hours of continuous listening
The hardware is integrated within
the tongue and the heel of the shoe.
The shoe has a USB port on the lateral
side for plugging in the storage device
and battery charger.
Manufacturers of Dada Footwear are
excited about their upcoming Get-? t and
Get-smart shoes. While Get-? t will deliver
nformation on how to work out better in a
trainers voice to the wearer, the Get-smart
shoe will forward phone calls from a cell
phone to the CodeM headset.
Dada shoes are targeted towards the age
group of 12-25 years. The CodeM footwear
s available in the market at a retail price of
$199.99.
New Age Malware
New Age Malware
We were busy brainstorming in one of
our many editorial meetings; it was
well past our lunchtime and some of
us were quite understandably getting restless.
A few continued with their ideas, backing them
up with facts and ? gures while others took
turns betting on the menu in the canteen that
day. In the middle of this, one of our (hungry)
reviewers received a text message. It turned out
to be a spam message sent via Bluetooth. He had
forgotten to turn Bluetooth off after transferring
files from his computer. Our attention now shifted
from filling our empty stomachs to the source of
that trash Bluetooth message. Eliminating those
who did not have Bluetooth enabled phones, we
finally homed in on the culpritour unsuspecting
illustrator. His mobile phone was infected with
a Trojan that was periodically sending rubbish
messages via Bluetooth to neighboring devices.
The poor old chap was quite embarrassed and
completely at a loss as to how he managed to
contract this pest on his phone. There are many
more like him, naive and clueless of this new
menacemobile phone malware. If he were a
little more careful with his ficonnectivity settingsfl,
he would not have faced this problem in the
first place. The infection was not a dangerous
onehe did not lose any information but if his
phone could be so easily infected then it could
be open to smarter intrusions. To drive my point
home, enable Bluetooth on your phone in a public
place (a restaurant or a park) and search for more
devices in the area. There will be phones that
might require authentication (with pass codes
that can be easily guessed) or ones that will
willingly pair up with your device!
F-Secure, a Finnish anti-virus company did
something similar but on a much larger scale
by conducting a Bluetooth test in CeBIT (held
in Hannover, Germany) this year. They built
a fiBluetooth honeypotfla device with a
100-meter range that identi? ed itself as a
phone in discoverable mode. The honeypot
was capable of identifying the devices found
in its vicinityones that had Bluetooth,
enabled or not. By the end of the trade
fair, which goes on for a week, it had
identi? ed 12,500 unique devicesthats almost
1,800 devices a day! The trade fair was the perfect
playground to spread malicious code, overwrite
system ? les, SMS premium numbers et al. This
did not happen because the honeypot was only
designed to identify the devices within a hundred
meter radius but it can be used to accept ? le
transfers and scan for viruses. F-Secure hopes
this concept will be used to scan devices at check
points in enterprises to curb the spread of any
mobile viruses. But are there so many mobile
viruses out there in the wild or are they just
being a little too paranoid? Many still discount
the mobile phone virus scare as one that is over
hyped. Even as the skeptics continue to voice their
opinions, anti-virus organizations have released
products aimed at protecting PDAs (handhelds)
and smart phones (using the Symbian or Windows
CE/Pocket PC/Mobile OS). Does this really mean
that there is a cause for concern or is it just
another ploy to feed off peoples paranoia?
Evolutiona natural process
The story is quite simpleever since some
brilliant scientists brought computing power from
the mainframe rooms to our desktops, we have
learnt to rely heavily on the machines. It didnt
take time for another bunch of intelligent minds
to cook up programs that could get hold of the
personal information stored on your computer. It
was time to turn to anti-virus software to prevent
them from causing havoc on your office or
home machine. And if that werent good enough
the next resort was installing a firewall. Next,
spyware made its appearance, wreaked havoc on
desktops with rootkits toeing the line.
The reason for so many attacks is the
increasing number of desktop and notebook
users. A regular desktop or a notebook holds
personal records, e-mails, documents, pictures,
etc. Handhelds being able to store the same sort
of information are being exposed to the same
risks today. With convergence as the buzz word,
smart phones are becoming more popular. Be
it a Palm Treo, a Blackberry, an O2 or a simple
Symbian Series 60 phone, everyone wants to be
the proud owner of these devices because of the
sheer computing power they provide in your
palms. But like everything else, convergence
too has its share of disadvantages.
The mobile world was unaffected by
viruses and worms till two years back
when anti-virus companies reported a
mobile phone worm that could spread via
Bluetooth connections. The worm names
fiCaribefl appeared on many phones as
fiCabir.Afl. Even though Cabir.A was written
by coders who just wanted to show what
could be done to any Bluetooth-enabled
device within a 10-meter radius. Nothing
stopped others from taking advantage of
this concept and soon there were variants of
it infecting mobile phones.
Ever since then there have been cases
of Trojans, worms and malware infecting
mobile phones all around the world. The
numbers might not be staggering since
their footprints are sometimes limited to a
countrys service provider or the language.
The Delf Trojan, for example, infected PCs
around the end of 2004. It made use of
Russian text-messaging services to send
SMS to mobile phone usersanother form
of spam. In the same year the fiMosquitofl
virus affected Symbian-based Series 60
phones. The virus seemed to originate from
pirated copies of a mobile game. The game
company took ownership of that fivirusfl. It
had been planted to send information to
their servers (in the form of text messages)
of the use of illegal copies. The company had
to remove this from the game after they
received complaints.
Java-based Malware
The list of infections might not be as
long when compared to the PC-related
attacks but there have been cases where
Trojans (known as PbStealer) capable of
stealing personal information from smart
phones have been discovered by anti-virus
companies. A lot of us store our account
numbers, passport details, PIN codes on
our phones. Phones that make use of
more services like e-mail, voice mail, etc
are more susceptible to Trojans.
Last month, a Java-based infection called
Redbrowser.A infected Symbian-based
Series 60 and 80 phones by posing as a WAP
browser that uses free text messages. It in
fact uses only fipremiumfl phone numbers
and continues sending random messages til
the service is terminated explicitly. The end
result is a fat bill! Right now, it seems to hav
affected phones in Russia but the moment
these infections start crossing network and
language barriers users will face problems.
The F-CommWarrior worm, for example,
has been reported in five countries like ? ve
countries (including India) while Cabir has
been sighted in 24. As you can see, worms
are going international and at a rapid pace.
There are some minor infections as well to
tackle, annoying nonetheless. While some
might send you random text messages,
others might wipe off all system fonts when
you restart your phone or replace all the
icons in the Menu with skulls. And in case
you think Windows-based smart phones
are unaffected, dont be so sure. Reports on
malware designed for CE/Pocket PC/Mobile
5.0 might be less in number but there seems
to be enough room for intrusions, especially
with the arrival of Java-based applications.
The Mobile Anti-Virus Researchers
Association has reported a new kind of
virus called fiCrossoverfl. This one infects
a Windows Pocket PC when it syncs with
the infected computer. Do not panic, this
is another one of those concepts that
demonstrates the chinks in mobile devices.
The need of the hour is observing caution
when reading mail or opening attachments
from unknown recipients. If the threat
increases over the next few years (as more
smart phones are bought), we will ? nd
ourselves updating our anti-virus software
on our phones.
Different methods of protection
Third party software applications
Installing anti-virus software made for
the mobile OS. Trend Micro, F-Secure,
Kaspersky Lab, Symantec, McAfee offer
anti-virus and/or firewall solutions.
End-to-end solution
Usually used in a corporate scenario
where the service provider offers secure
connections and protection from spam in the
form of messages, mail and suspect files.
Built-in security
The smart phones operating system is built
with fire-fighting and preventing skills. The
phone manufacture might either use a third
party software to help to use its engine or
create its own security layer in the OS.
We were busy brainstorming in one of
our many editorial meetings; it was
well past our lunchtime and some of
us were quite understandably getting restless.
A few continued with their ideas, backing them
up with facts and ? gures while others took
turns betting on the menu in the canteen that
day. In the middle of this, one of our (hungry)
reviewers received a text message. It turned out
to be a spam message sent via Bluetooth. He had
forgotten to turn Bluetooth off after transferring
files from his computer. Our attention now shifted
from filling our empty stomachs to the source of
that trash Bluetooth message. Eliminating those
who did not have Bluetooth enabled phones, we
finally homed in on the culpritour unsuspecting
illustrator. His mobile phone was infected with
a Trojan that was periodically sending rubbish
messages via Bluetooth to neighboring devices.
The poor old chap was quite embarrassed and
completely at a loss as to how he managed to
contract this pest on his phone. There are many
more like him, naive and clueless of this new
menacemobile phone malware. If he were a
little more careful with his ficonnectivity settingsfl,
he would not have faced this problem in the
first place. The infection was not a dangerous
onehe did not lose any information but if his
phone could be so easily infected then it could
be open to smarter intrusions. To drive my point
home, enable Bluetooth on your phone in a public
place (a restaurant or a park) and search for more
devices in the area. There will be phones that
might require authentication (with pass codes
that can be easily guessed) or ones that will
willingly pair up with your device!
F-Secure, a Finnish anti-virus company did
something similar but on a much larger scale
by conducting a Bluetooth test in CeBIT (held
in Hannover, Germany) this year. They built
a fiBluetooth honeypotfla device with a
100-meter range that identi? ed itself as a
phone in discoverable mode. The honeypot
was capable of identifying the devices found
in its vicinityones that had Bluetooth,
enabled or not. By the end of the trade
fair, which goes on for a week, it had
identi? ed 12,500 unique devicesthats almost
1,800 devices a day! The trade fair was the perfect
playground to spread malicious code, overwrite
system ? les, SMS premium numbers et al. This
did not happen because the honeypot was only
designed to identify the devices within a hundred
meter radius but it can be used to accept ? le
transfers and scan for viruses. F-Secure hopes
this concept will be used to scan devices at check
points in enterprises to curb the spread of any
mobile viruses. But are there so many mobile
viruses out there in the wild or are they just
being a little too paranoid? Many still discount
the mobile phone virus scare as one that is over
hyped. Even as the skeptics continue to voice their
opinions, anti-virus organizations have released
products aimed at protecting PDAs (handhelds)
and smart phones (using the Symbian or Windows
CE/Pocket PC/Mobile OS). Does this really mean
that there is a cause for concern or is it just
another ploy to feed off peoples paranoia?
Evolutiona natural process
The story is quite simpleever since some
brilliant scientists brought computing power from
the mainframe rooms to our desktops, we have
learnt to rely heavily on the machines. It didnt
take time for another bunch of intelligent minds
to cook up programs that could get hold of the
personal information stored on your computer. It
was time to turn to anti-virus software to prevent
them from causing havoc on your office or
home machine. And if that werent good enough
the next resort was installing a firewall. Next,
spyware made its appearance, wreaked havoc on
desktops with rootkits toeing the line.
The reason for so many attacks is the
increasing number of desktop and notebook
users. A regular desktop or a notebook holds
personal records, e-mails, documents, pictures,
etc. Handhelds being able to store the same sort
of information are being exposed to the same
risks today. With convergence as the buzz word,
smart phones are becoming more popular. Be
it a Palm Treo, a Blackberry, an O2 or a simple
Symbian Series 60 phone, everyone wants to be
the proud owner of these devices because of the
sheer computing power they provide in your
palms. But like everything else, convergence
too has its share of disadvantages.
The mobile world was unaffected by
viruses and worms till two years back
when anti-virus companies reported a
mobile phone worm that could spread via
Bluetooth connections. The worm names
fiCaribefl appeared on many phones as
fiCabir.Afl. Even though Cabir.A was written
by coders who just wanted to show what
could be done to any Bluetooth-enabled
device within a 10-meter radius. Nothing
stopped others from taking advantage of
this concept and soon there were variants of
it infecting mobile phones.
Ever since then there have been cases
of Trojans, worms and malware infecting
mobile phones all around the world. The
numbers might not be staggering since
their footprints are sometimes limited to a
countrys service provider or the language.
The Delf Trojan, for example, infected PCs
around the end of 2004. It made use of
Russian text-messaging services to send
SMS to mobile phone usersanother form
of spam. In the same year the fiMosquitofl
virus affected Symbian-based Series 60
phones. The virus seemed to originate from
pirated copies of a mobile game. The game
company took ownership of that fivirusfl. It
had been planted to send information to
their servers (in the form of text messages)
of the use of illegal copies. The company had
to remove this from the game after they
received complaints.
Java-based Malware
The list of infections might not be as
long when compared to the PC-related
attacks but there have been cases where
Trojans (known as PbStealer) capable of
stealing personal information from smart
phones have been discovered by anti-virus
companies. A lot of us store our account
numbers, passport details, PIN codes on
our phones. Phones that make use of
more services like e-mail, voice mail, etc
are more susceptible to Trojans.
Last month, a Java-based infection called
Redbrowser.A infected Symbian-based
Series 60 and 80 phones by posing as a WAP
browser that uses free text messages. It in
fact uses only fipremiumfl phone numbers
and continues sending random messages til
the service is terminated explicitly. The end
result is a fat bill! Right now, it seems to hav
affected phones in Russia but the moment
these infections start crossing network and
language barriers users will face problems.
The F-CommWarrior worm, for example,
has been reported in five countries like ? ve
countries (including India) while Cabir has
been sighted in 24. As you can see, worms
are going international and at a rapid pace.
There are some minor infections as well to
tackle, annoying nonetheless. While some
might send you random text messages,
others might wipe off all system fonts when
you restart your phone or replace all the
icons in the Menu with skulls. And in case
you think Windows-based smart phones
are unaffected, dont be so sure. Reports on
malware designed for CE/Pocket PC/Mobile
5.0 might be less in number but there seems
to be enough room for intrusions, especially
with the arrival of Java-based applications.
The Mobile Anti-Virus Researchers
Association has reported a new kind of
virus called fiCrossoverfl. This one infects
a Windows Pocket PC when it syncs with
the infected computer. Do not panic, this
is another one of those concepts that
demonstrates the chinks in mobile devices.
The need of the hour is observing caution
when reading mail or opening attachments
from unknown recipients. If the threat
increases over the next few years (as more
smart phones are bought), we will ? nd
ourselves updating our anti-virus software
on our phones.
Different methods of protection
Third party software applications
Installing anti-virus software made for
the mobile OS. Trend Micro, F-Secure,
Kaspersky Lab, Symantec, McAfee offer
anti-virus and/or firewall solutions.
End-to-end solution
Usually used in a corporate scenario
where the service provider offers secure
connections and protection from spam in the
form of messages, mail and suspect files.
Built-in security
The smart phones operating system is built
with fire-fighting and preventing skills. The
phone manufacture might either use a third
party software to help to use its engine or
create its own security layer in the OS.
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