Rumors claim that Apple will focus heavily on the iPhone and Apple TV on its upcoming event. (Photo : Reuters)
Apple iPhone owners have been switching off their smartphones' security settings for years, allowing their devices to run unofficial apps or functions. Recently 225,000 such "jailbroken" handsets were attacked in the "KeyRaider" malware hack, resulting in unauthorized app and in-app shopping sprees. This spotlights the importance of maintaining the smartphones' default settings to reduce security vulnerabilities.
The recent iPhone hack was reported this week by cybersecurity company Palo Alto Networks. All of the phones attacked were jailbroken devices.
Cybersecurity researchers found the stolen information on the black market. About 20,000 people used the data to download apps and make fake in-app purchases.
The KeyRaider malware is being distributed through Cydia stores in China. In such stores people can find and install software for jailbroken iPhones.
Victims of the hacked handsets were in 18 different nations including the United States, France, and Australia, according to Financial Review. They also included China, the hackers' location.
The recent hack affects Apple in two ways. It justifies its long battle against jailbreaks and warnings to iPhone users, while also spotlighting how hackers can find and exploit security holes.
Apple made a friendly minder to iPhone owners that the company offers malware software to protect its customers' devices. It is found at the App Store.
Bluebox is a company that helps app developers make hack-proof software. Executive Adam Ely argued that Apple's warning not to jailbreak phones is not effective enough, according to CNET. Users might still want to use unofficial apps, or learn why security settings do not allow certain functions.
Experts highly recommend not jailbreaking phones. However, if iPhone users are going to do that, they should
install cybersecurity apps.
