Mobile phone operators in UK have moved quickly to distance themselves from the controversy over alleged key-logging software Carrier IQ, saying that smartphones on their networks do not report information about their owners.

Android developer Trevor Eckhart claimed that the software, which comes pre-loaded on millions of smartphones, was capable of gathering more than just performance information. He claimed it tracked the user's location, keystrokes and text messages, reports TechRadar.

Mobile operators across the UK have taken to their user forums to deny any relationship with Carrier IQ. Community Manager at Vodafone UK said, "I've looked into this and the answer seems to be a no. Take it as that for now, and if I find anything else out I'll update the thread, but I doubt I will."

O2 also claims ignorance of Carrier IQ. "O2 doesn't collect any information via Carrier IQ. This is a question for the handset suppliers", said O2.

Finnish mobile giant Nokia has denied the claims, releasing a statement stating that "Nokia is aware of inaccurate reports which state that software from Carrier IQ has been found on Nokia devices. Carrier IQ does not ship products for any Nokia devices, so these reports are wrong."

Trevor Eckhart's demonstration of Carrier IQ's key-logging abilities is available here.

Tags: spyware smartphone privacy tracking carrier iq rootkit