RIM has posted a security advisory (KB19701) that all BlackBerry Desktop Manager versions earlier than version 5.0 contain a vulnerability that would allow a malicious user to remotely execute code on your computer:

This advisory relates to a vulnerability in a Lotus Notes Intellisync DLL that the BlackBerry Desktop Manager may use. This vulnerability may allow a malicious user to perform an attack that leverages social engineering to achieve remote code execution on the computer running the BlackBerry Desktop Manager. If the legitimate (logged in) user clicks a link to a malicious web site (for example, in an email message, in a browser, or an instant message) on the computer that is running the BlackBerry Desktop Manager, a vulnerability in an Intellisync component could allow the malicious user who sent the link or created the malicious web site to execute code on the computer using the privileges of the legitimate user.

Note: The affected Lotus Notes Intellisync DLL is included by default in all BlackBerry Desktop Manager installations. This vulnerability exists whether or not the DLL is used after installation.

Issue Severity: This vulnerability has a Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) score of 9.3.

Issue Status: Vulnerability confirmed. For more information, see the Resolution section.

To avoid becoming a victim of a malicious user RIM is recommending everyone update their BlackBerry Desktop Manager immediately to at least version 5.0.1.  To download this update visit the BlackBerry Software Downloads page and select appropriate version in the drop-down menu. RIM has also issued the following workaround:

You can disable the Lotus Notes Intellisync functionality by unregistering the Intellisync component DLL, lnresobject.dll. Disabling the functionality prevents a malicious user from exploiting the vulnerability.

To unregister the DLL on the computer running the BlackBerry Desktop Manager, at a command line enter the command: regsvr32 /u “C:\Program Files\Research In Motion\BlackBerry\IS71 Connectors\Lotus Notes5.0\lnresobject.dll”

via KB19701

Darren let me know that he has updated his BlackBerry Master Control Program (MCP) to version 0.9.2.0 Beta 10.

MCP is a must have application for moderate to advanced BlackBerry users that allows you upgrade or downgrade your OS, load/save/erase modules, take screenshots, perform Java Loader commands, reset to factory defaults and so much more! What makes MCP awesome besides for all its features is that it comes in a portable version that you can install on a portable memory device (like a USB drive), allowing you to plug it in for use on any compatible PC.

Here are some info and download links for each version:

• Standard / 3.27 MB (3,439,240 bytes)
  • Information:  http://mcpfx.com/download.php?view.4
  • Download:  http://mcpfx.com/request.php?4
• Portable / 3.29 MB (3,454,016 bytes)
  • Information:  http://mcpfx.com/download.php?view.5
  • Download:  http://mcpfx.com/request.php?5
• Stand Alone / 1.45 MB (1,530,848 bytes)
  • Information:  http://mcpfx.com/download.php?view.6
  • Download:  http://mcpfx.com/request.php?6

Make sure you have BlackBerry Desktop Manager v5.0 before using MCP. I’ve included a changelog of this update after the jump.

CONTINUE READING »

Originally, PocketMac for BlackBerry users received free and unlimited email support from RIM. Today RIM has issued an end of support notice for PocketMac via this knowledge base article.  Here are the details:

Please be advised that as of October 2, 2009 PocketMac is no longer supported by Research In Motion.

Please contact PocketMac at www.pocketmac.com if you require support for PocketMac for BlackBerry smartphones.

Please note that related references and troubleshooting steps have been removed from www.blackberry.com.

This shouldn’t come as a surprise since RIM recently released Desktop Manager for Mac. If you plan to continue using PocketMac and need support be sure to send the PocketMac developers a message directly.

UPDATED Added a link for the v1.0.1 release notes. *

@BRSDiddy let me know that BlackBerry Desktop Manager for Mac has been updated to version 1.0.1 Build 2.

This update “includes important bug fixes and enhancements to your data synchronization” and according to @BRSDiddy, syncing is significantly faster. I’ll update this post once official release notes become available, but for now, leave some comments if you notice any other changes.

If you don’t have BlackBerry Desktop Manager for Mac you can download it at blackberry.com/mac.

• BlackBerry Desktop Manager – Release Notes (PDF)
  

RIMGeeks has released a new version of their handy BlackBerry Swiss Army Knife (BBSAK) Windows desktop application.

New in BBSAK v1.6:

• Brand New Tabbed Layout for better organization
• Animated app expansion
• Multiple COD install now available through the “Install COD(s)” button
• Multiple COD removal now available through the “Remove COD(s)” button (Read system required to remove cods)
• Install JAD files (ALL CODs referenced in JAD file must be in the SAME FOLDER as JAD)
• JAD Maker now included! (Box is drag and drop for windows xp and vista users only)
• New BB Screenshot Preview! – Preview your screenshot before you save it!
• RESTORE APPS BUTTON IS BACK!!! (NOTE** will install all files under “BBSAK BACKUP” in the applications section of your blackberry removing this app will remove ALL apps in the backup!!!!! THE ALX IS STILL CREATED!!! feel free to install that via loader.exe or blackberry desktop manager)

This desktop app has helped me out a few times where I bricked my BlackBerry (not on purpose of course). Luckily I had made a backup of my 3rd party apps with BBSAK so it was easy to install all of them at once instead of one-by-one. Backing up 3rd party apps is not all BBSAK can do and RIMGeeks is continuously working to improve it with new features and fixes.

For more info and to download BBSAK v1.6 visit the RIMGeeks project page.

Morrison (aka @moestepp) let me know that he has put together a video guide with instructions on how to install hybrid or beta OS versions using BlackBerry Desktop Software for Mac.

I’ve transcribed the steps (below) for those that prefer text, but the video is better since it offers visual aide. The BlackBerry used for this tutorial is a Curve 8310 on AT&T. Do this at your own risk and only if you are comfortable with using beta/leaked software.

Morrison has also provided links to beta OS files in DMG format for use with a Mac computer. This method is mainly used for a hybrid OS upgrade. If you are using a beta “you would typically include the radio file in the same folder” (according to Morrison).

• 8330 5.0.0.230 http://www.megaupload.com/?d=G4VGQBM9
  
• 8900 5.0.0.238 http://www.megaupload.com/?d=V0IQRULX
  
• 9000 5.0.0.238 http://www.megaupload.com/?d=S3CMOBM2
  
• 9530 5.0.0.230 http://www.megaupload.com/?d=PL31VO1W
  
• 9630 5.0.0.230 http://www.megaupload.com/?d=G1PURKUJ

Here are the steps for use with a hybrid:

1. Plug your BlackBerry into your MacBook with BlackBerry Desktop Manager running
2. Install the carrier recommended OS (in this case AT&T OS 4.5.0.110)
3. Reload the OS that the carrier recommended for the phone. This will download all the appropriate files that are required.
4. Have the hybrid OS handy (in this case 8330 OS 5.0.0.238)
5. Go to Hard Drive > Username > Library > Application Support > BlackBerry Desktop Manager > Device Applications > Folder with numbers and letters
6. Open the Java file containing the hybrid OS files
7. Select all the files in the hybrid OS folder
8. Drag and drop these files into the folder with numbers and letters found in step 5
9. When prompted to replace files, click on apply to all and then replace
10. Go to BlackBerry Desktop Manager (should be running in background) and click on Applications and click Check for Updates
11. It will say there are no new updates in the next screen. Click on Show Other Versions in this screen.
12. You will now find the carrier recommended OS that was installed in steps 2 and 3. Click on the radio button to the left so it is “selected” and then click on Select.
13. Click on Reload
14. You’re done!

The Desktop Manager for Mac will think it’s just reloading the current OS to the BlackBerry but since you copied over the files from the hybrid OS it will actually be loading a different OS. As always please make backups before attempting to install or upgrade anything.

If you decide to try this out let me know how it works for you in the comments!

RIM has made BlackBerry Desktop Manager for Mac available for download!

With BlackBerry® Desktop Software you’ll be able sync your iTunes® playlists and personal information like contacts, tasks and appointments; install new software, games, and more. BlackBerry Desktop Software will offer the best of both worlds by allowing you to manage aspects of your BlackBerry® smartphone from your Mac.

To get acquainted with the software check out the following documentation:

• BlackBerry Desktop Manager for Mac – User Guide (PDF)
• BlackBerry Desktop Manager for Mac – Release Notes (PDF)

Visit blackberry.com/mac to download the software. Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments!

RIM has officially confirmed that the BlackBerry Desktop Manager for Mac will be available for download on October 2nd!

Research In Motion (RIM) (NASDAQ: RIMM)(TSX: RIM) has exciting news for Mac® users that want an easy and reliable solution that syncs their contacts, calendar appointments, tasks and notes with their BlackBerry® smartphones. A new version of the BlackBerry® Desktop Manager software has been developed specifically for Mac users. The new desktop software is scheduled to be available for free download from www.blackberry.com/mac on Friday, October 2 at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time.

Continue reading for the full press release from RIM.

CONTINUE READING »

September 25th came and went, unfortunately with no BlackBerry Desktop Software for Mac launch. BGR is back with a (rumored) October 2nd launch date, but I wouldn’t hold my breath since the release of BBDS for Mac keeps getting pushed back (if that’s the case).

While you Mac users wait, be sure to check out the Desktop Software for Mac Archives to read up on everything known about it, including feature summaries, walkthroughs and screenshots.

If you hear or know anything more about BlackBerry Desktop Software for Mac feel free to send me a message.

Andrey over at Inside BlackBerry posted up a great in-depth walkthrough of BlackBerry Desktop Software (BBDS) for Mac. According to the walkthrough, “Desktop Software” is what it will be known as and not “Desktop Manager”.

Here is what Andrey’s walkthrough covers:

• The Welcome Sheet
• Summary Screen and Device Options
• Synchronizing
• Updating Device Software
• Installing and Removing Applications
• Backup and Restore

According to Andrey the release of BBDS for Mac is “just around the corner”.

There are plenty of screenshots for visual aide so head on over to Inside BlackBerry and check out the detailed walkthrough. Don’t forget to sign up at blackberry.com/mac for more info and to be notified about its release, or just keep an eye on BBRocks! since I’ll be posting about it as soon as it’s available .