In a shocking interview with ‘The Wall Street Journal’, a money thief iPhones sentenced to 94 months in prison shared information about his methods of stealing and exploiting data.
Approaching his victims under the pretext of offering drugs, the criminal revealed how he gained access to devices and stole sensitive content.
Criminal reveals iPhone theft strategies and how to protect yourself
The attacker exploited the vulnerability of numeric passwords, thus managing to briefly unlock the cell phone to reset the password.
This allowed him to access banking details from popular apps such as Venmo and Paypal, as well as make fraudulent Apple Pay purchases on users’ behalf.
In addition to financial data, the thief searched the devices’ notes for additional passwords. He would later format the stolen iPhones and resell them as new, making a considerable profit.
Its main focus was university students, often in vulnerable situations, such as in bars and parties.
Be careful with your smartphone – Image: Internet/Reproduction
In response to this threat, Apple introduced a new layer of security, requiring users to provide Face ID or fingerprint to change account passwords. Despite this, the new feature has limitations and is only available in version 17.3 of iOS.
To avoid falling for similar scams, users are advised to activate available security settings and remain vigilant in potentially risky situations.
The constant evolution of threats demands proactive measures from both Apple and consumers. In an increasingly complex digital world, device security becomes a priority.
The revealing interview with this iPhone thief highlights the importance of proactive measures by users and the industry.
The introduction of new layers of security by Apple It’s a crucial step, but continued awareness and precaution are essential to protect against cyber threats. Stay informed and updated to ensure a safer and more secure digital experience.