Apple released iOS 7.0.2 to fix the lockscreen bug, which allows users to access certain applications without the passcode. Just after a day, another iOS 7 lockscreen bug has been discovered that allows users to access the phone app and bypass the lockscreen without entering the passcode.
The bug was discovered by the folks at JailbreakNation. The good thing is that it only grants access to the phone application, and not the entire phone. Additionally, it may not be as straightforward to exploit as it sounds, requiring a specific sequence of actions to be carried out.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Exploit the Bug
Here are the step-by-step instructions, but they are not very simple to carry out.
- Make a phone call with Siri
- Click Facetime
- When Facetime pops up put your device to sleep
- Turn on your phone and swipe
- Answer and end the Facetime call at the other end
- Click the + cancel the menu and then end the call. After a while you will be in the phone app.
Once inside the phone application, the user can make calls from the victim’s phone, send messages, etc. This process may require two iOS devices, but if you are worried, you can disable Siri on the lockscreen from the Settings.
Implications and Recommendations
The discovery of this bug raises several concerns about the security of iOS devices. While the bug only grants access to the phone application, it still poses a significant risk. Unauthorized users could potentially make calls, send messages, and access contact information, leading to privacy breaches and potential misuse.
To mitigate the risk, users are advised to disable Siri on the lockscreen. This can be done by navigating to Settings > Siri & Search and toggling off the “Allow Siri When Locked” option. Additionally, users should always keep their devices updated with the latest software patches provided by Apple, as these updates often contain important security fixes.
Apple has a history of quickly addressing such vulnerabilities, and it is likely that they will release another update to fix this newly discovered bug. In the meantime, users should remain vigilant and take the necessary precautions to protect their devices.
You can check out the bug in action here.
Source: JailbreakNation
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