Review: DexMobile RobLock 1.3

DexMobile releases a new version of RobLock 1.3, plus a special 50% savings offer for BlackBerryNews.Com readers.

RobLock’s new software, code named Revenge, builds on the suggestions of users from BlackBerryForums.com, adding functionality and ease of use into an already outstanding product.

1. Notification of SIM Change.In the event the SIM card in your BlackBerry is changed, this sends a self-written text message to a cellular number of your choice notifying you of the change. This message includes all of your contact information from your address book, in addition to the details about the new SIM card installed. This feature was the core of the first release of RobLock. The message looks like the example below, providing the phone number now being used on your BlackBerry and all relevant network information to assist with reporting the theft to authorities.

RobLock Text Message:

Location Info:
NetworkId-608
CountryId-784
CellId-10773
BaseStationId-57
LocationId-32
RoutingAreaId-1
currentIMSI-310260.30.000000.3

RB+ ********* WIPE

3. Lock (Revenge).This is a fun feature, as it has many uses. It was designed to allow you to simply lock your phone remotely - with a twist. The twist is it also sets off a very loud siren on the BlackBerry. This can be used to find your misplaced BlackBerry or help flush out someone you think swiped it. When you send the lock command, the BlackBerry locks with your contact information on the screen. The only way to unlock it is to send the unlock command.

Lock Command:

RB+ ********* LOCK

 Unlock Command:

 RB+ ********* UNLOCK

NOTE: The asterisks represent your password.

The install was a simple OTA installation that took less than a minute. After the installation, a red circle RobLock icon is present on the device.  In order to add an additional layer of security, I personally decided to hide this icon once I configured RobLock.

Upon launching the program for the first time, you are asked to set a password. This password is used to access and configure RobLock in the future, as well as serving for the means of authentication used to remote wipe or lock your BlackBerry.

After setting the password you are presented with a simple interface to configure the software. Your first option is a check box to enable RobLock. After that, a Recipient box to type the phone number used for the SIM card change notification. You can also choose a number from your address book on this same screen. From here, you can edit the default message that is sent if the SIM card is changed. The ‘Send contacts’ feature allows you to capture basic contact information from your device through a secretly sent SMS message, which can be a blessing in the event no backup exists.

Saving your configuration will leave the RobLock software running in the background, monitoring for SIM card changes and remote commands. RobLock also restarts automatically after a reboot without any user intervention.

You are now protected. If you loose track of your BlackBerry at anytime, you can simply send a wipe or lock command.

DexMobile offers free and fast technical support. RobLock provides peace of mind knowing that you can remote wipe your BlackBerry if the need should arise.

I have personally tested the software without issues on the BlackBerry Pearl (8100 and 8120) and BlackBerry Curve (8320) using OS 4.2, 4.3, and 4.5. I would recommend RobLock and feel it is a must-have utility for every BlackBerry owner.

DexMobile is giving away a special savings offer to BlackBerryNews.Com readers - 50% off the retail price ($4.95 after rebate). Follow the link below and use promotion code: RBTROF3R5T

This is a limited time offer, so download the OTA and give RobLock a try.

OTA Install (from your BlackBerry Browser):http://www.dexmobile.com/RoblockBB.jad

To Purchase: http://www.dexmobile.com/Roblock_BB.aspx