Apple Encryption Flaw Leaves Data Vulnerable to Hackers

Apple Encryption Flaw Leaves Data Vulnerable to Hackers

Apple Encryption Flaw Leaves Data Vulnerable to HackersIf you are the proud owner of an Apple device, listen up! On Friday, Apple revealed a major SSL (Secure Socket Layer) vulnerability in its software; so, what does that mean to you? Well, hackers can intercept and alter communications, like email and login credentials, on any Apple device because communications that are meant to be encrypted are not.

Because of this vulnerability, a man-in-the-middle (MITM) attack can seamlessly intercept communications, including unencrypted passwords, between you and your intended recipient or website. The attacker is able to act like a proxy, reading, inserting and modifying the data by using a fake certificate of authority to trick the device into thinking it is interacting with a trusted host.

Apple responded immediately by rushing out a new version of iOS for tablets and phones to patch this vulnerability, but it was only issued for iPhones, generation 4 or later; iPod touch, 5th generation and iPad, 2nd generation, while a blunt statement was found on Apple’s support site: The software “failed to validate the authenticity of the connection.”

By the way, did you notice that Mac computers were not mentioned regarding the new version of iOS? That’s because they are currently being left hanging without a patch.

For those of you with newer Apple devices, most of them should have automatically updated with the patch to deter this SSL vulnerability. If not, however, I suggest going to your settings icon immediately and updating your software. And, for the Mac computers left out, I guess you’re “on a wing and a prayer” right now since I’m sure hackers are already studying the patch to develop programs to take advantage of Apple’s flaw.

About the Author

Ginger Hill is Group Social Media Manager.

Featured

  • From Surveillance to Intelligence

    Years ago, it would have been significantly more expensive to run an analytic like that — requiring a custom-built solution with burdensome infrastructure demands — but modern edge devices have made it accessible to everyone. It also saves time, which is a critical factor if a missing child is involved. Video compression technology has played a critical role as well. Over the years, significant advancements have been made in video coding standards — including H.263, MPEG formats, and H.264—alongside compression optimization technologies developed by IP video manufacturers to improve efficiency without sacrificing quality. The open-source AV1 codec developed by the Alliance for Open Media—a consortium including Google, Netflix, Microsoft, Amazon and others — is already the preferred decoder for cloud-based applications, and is quickly becoming the standard for video compression of all types. Read Now

  • Cost: Reactive vs. Proactive Security

    Security breaches often happen despite the availability of tools to prevent them. To combat this problem, the industry is shifting from reactive correction to proactive protection. This article will examine why so many security leaders have realized they must “lead before the breach” – not after. Read Now

  • Achieving Clear Audio

    In today’s ever-changing world of security and risk management, effective communication via an intercom and door entry communication system is a critical communication tool to keep a facility’s staff, visitors and vendors safe. Read Now

  • Beyond Apps: Access Control for Today’s Residents

    The modern resident lives in an app-saturated world. From banking to grocery delivery, fitness tracking to ridesharing, nearly every service demands another download. But when it comes to accessing the place you live, most people do not want to clutter their phone with yet another app, especially if its only purpose is to open a door. Read Now

  • Survey: 48 Percent of Worshippers Feel Less Safe Attending In-Person Services

    Almost half (48%) of those who attend religious services say they feel less safe attending in-person due to rising acts of violence at places of worship. In fact, 39% report these safety concerns have led them to change how often they attend in-person services, according to new research from Verkada conducted online by The Harris Poll among 1,123 U.S. adults who attend a religious service or event at least once a month. Read Now

New Products

  • Compact IP Video Intercom

    Viking’s X-205 Series of intercoms provide HD IP video and two-way voice communication - all wrapped up in an attractive compact chassis.

  • EasyGate SPT and SPD

    EasyGate SPT SPD

    Security solutions do not have to be ordinary, let alone unattractive. Having renewed their best-selling speed gates, Cominfo has once again demonstrated their Art of Security philosophy in practice — and confirmed their position as an industry-leading manufacturers of premium speed gates and turnstiles.

  • PE80 Series

    PE80 Series by SARGENT / ED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin

    ASSA ABLOY, a global leader in access solutions, has announced the launch of two next generation exit devices from long-standing leaders in the premium exit device market: the PE80 Series by SARGENT and the PED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin. These new exit devices boast industry-first features that are specifically designed to provide enhanced safety, security and convenience, setting new standards for exit solutions. The SARGENT PE80 and Corbin Russwin PED4000/PED5000 Series exit devices are engineered to meet the ever-evolving needs of modern buildings. Featuring the high strength, security and durability that ASSA ABLOY is known for, the new exit devices deliver several innovative, industry-first features in addition to elegant design finishes for every opening.