iPhone 6 Touch ID Susceptible to Fake Fingerprint Hack

iPhone 6 Touch ID Susceptible to Fake Fingerprint Hack

  • By Ginger Hill
  • Sep 24, 2014

Rumor has it that Apple still has some refining to do with their Touch ID technology that is being used in their latest, iPhone 6. According to security researcher Marc Rogers of Lookout Security, the latest iPhone models are still vulnerable to hacking using the same fake fingerprint technique as used with the iPhone 5s.iPhone 6 Touch ID Susceptible to Fake Fingerprint Hack

The hacking technique works like this: A hacker lifts a fingerprint from a solid surface and creates a copy of the fingerprint using forensic techniques. These replica fingerprints can activate Touch ID sensors on both models of Apple smartphones: iPhone 6 and iPhone 5s.

While this can obviously cause major security breaches, lifting fingerprints requires a high-skilled individual who is not only familiar with forensics but has the skill and patience to accurately copy the fingerprint.

Rogers also noted that the iPhone 6’s fingerprint sensor is a bit more sensitive than its predecessor, which could enable it to support a higher resolution scan. Sure, this improved scanner may make it more difficult for an unskilled hacker, but no additional security measures are offered, like a time-based password requirement.

Apple has opened iPhone 6 to mobile payments with Apple Pay, Apple’s new mobile payment initiative that uses NFC to process payments wirelessly with a one-time token and Touch ID authorization for “security;” however, savvy hackers may be able to gain access to iPhone user’s credit card information.

Image by: Hadrian / Shutterstock.com

About the Author

Ginger Hill is Group Social Media Manager.

Featured

  • The Future of Access Control: Cloud-Based Solutions for Safer Workplaces

    Access controls have revolutionized the way we protect our people, assets and operations. Gone are the days of cumbersome keychains and the security liabilities they introduced, but it’s a mistake to think that their evolution has reached its peak. Read Now

  • A Look at AI

    Large language models (LLMs) have taken the world by storm. Within months of OpenAI launching its AI chatbot, ChatGPT, it amassed more than 100 million users, making it the fastest-growing consumer application in history. Read Now

  • First, Do No Harm: Responsibly Applying Artificial Intelligence

    It was 2022 when early LLMs (Large Language Models) brought the term “AI” into mainstream public consciousness and since then, we’ve seen security corporations and integrators attempt to develop their solutions and sales pitches around the biggest tech boom of the 21st century. However, not all “artificial intelligence” is equally suitable for security applications, and it’s essential for end users to remain vigilant in understanding how their solutions are utilizing AI. Read Now

  • Improve Incident Response With Intelligent Cloud Video Surveillance

    Video surveillance is a vital part of business security, helping institutions protect against everyday threats for increased employee, customer, and student safety. However, many outdated surveillance solutions lack the ability to offer immediate insights into critical incidents. This slows down investigations and limits how effectively teams can respond to situations, creating greater risks for the organization. Read Now

  • Security Today Announces 2025 CyberSecured Award Winners

    Security Today is pleased to announce the 2025 CyberSecured Awards winners. Sixteen companies are being recognized this year for their network products and other cybersecurity initiatives that secure our world today. Read Now

Most   Popular

New Products

  • ResponderLink

    ResponderLink

    Shooter Detection Systems (SDS), an Alarm.com company and a global leader in gunshot detection solutions, has introduced ResponderLink, a groundbreaking new 911 notification service for gunshot events. ResponderLink completes the circle from detection to 911 notification to first responder awareness, giving law enforcement enhanced situational intelligence they urgently need to save lives. Integrating SDS’s proven gunshot detection system with Noonlight’s SendPolice platform, ResponderLink is the first solution to automatically deliver real-time gunshot detection data to 911 call centers and first responders. When shots are detected, the 911 dispatching center, also known as the Public Safety Answering Point or PSAP, is contacted based on the gunfire location, enabling faster initiation of life-saving emergency protocols.

  • AC Nio

    AC Nio

    Aiphone, a leading international manufacturer of intercom, access control, and emergency communication products, has introduced the AC Nio, its access control management software, an important addition to its new line of access control solutions.

  • Mobile Safe Shield

    Mobile Safe Shield

    SafeWood Designs, Inc., a manufacturer of patented bullet resistant products, is excited to announce the launch of the Mobile Safe Shield. The Mobile Safe Shield is a moveable bullet resistant shield that provides protection in the event of an assailant and supplies cover in the event of an active shooter. With a heavy-duty steel frame, quality castor wheels, and bullet resistant core, the Mobile Safe Shield is a perfect addition to any guard station, security desks, courthouses, police stations, schools, office spaces and more. The Mobile Safe Shield is incredibly customizable. Bullet resistant materials are available in UL 752 Levels 1 through 8 and include glass, white board, tack board, veneer, and plastic laminate. Flexibility in bullet resistant materials allows for the Mobile Safe Shield to blend more with current interior décor for a seamless design aesthetic. Optional custom paint colors are also available for the steel frame.