14 DAY TRIAL // While the vast majority is super excited about Apple’s recently released iOS 9 software, and with good reason, there’s a darker aspect we should really take into account when considering whether or not we should update to the new version.
iOS 9 was released to the masses only last week, and Apple boasts that 50% of iPhone and iPad users have already updated to the new version since then. But sadly, all these Apple gadget owners are susceptible to a simple hack that might as well turn their world upside down.
According to YouTube user “videosdebaraquito,” Apple’s new platform nestles a major security flaw which allows people to use Siri in order to access private data on an iPhone. And going about it is so simple it’s scary.
All you need to do is grab any PIN-protected device running iOS 9, enter an incorrect PIN four times, and on the fifth attempt, enter only three numbers and hold down the home button in order to bring Siri up while you enter the forth digit.
Then you will have to ask the virtual assistant a simple question like “What time is it?” and you’ll be immediately transported inside the phone with access to pictures or contacts.
As scary as it is, the flaw has a fix
The vulnerability seems pretty scary, but we have to be thankful it has been identified as quickly as it did. A fix for the problem is also available. In order to prevent anyone from tampering with the private info inside your phone, you’ll need to disable access to Siri when the phone is locked. In order to do so, go to the Settings app and then to the “Touch ID & Passcode” option.
Afterwards, look for the “Allow access when locked” section and slide the toggle located near Siri to off. The thing is that, in iOS 9, Siri is enabled in the lock screen by default, that’s why users who have updated to the latest Apple build are vulnerable to this threat.
Have you updated your Apple device to iOS 9 yet?
