BTK launches investigation, issues iOS warning

The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure announced that the National Cyber Incident Response Center has identified serious security vulnerabilities affecting devices running the iOS operating system, stating that they have requested an explanation from Apple and have launched an investigation.

Sayan stated that the National Cyber Incident Response Center (USOM) has been conducting work for some time regarding the vulnerabilities in iOS devices mentioned in the public domain.

Stating that serious security vulnerabilities affecting iOS devices were identified through comprehensive cyber threat intelligence work carried out by USOM, Sayan said, “This critical vulnerability carries the risk of full control of the device being seized and user data being stolen.

As part of our work, 16 command and control servers were identified, published on the USOM malicious links list, and blocked. Furthermore, we have transferred the necessary information to our 2203 Cyber Incident Response Teams (SOME) regarding the threat via the SOME Communication Platform (SİP). Our Information and Communication Technologies Authority (BTK) has requested an explanation from Apple regarding the matter and has simultaneously launched an investigation.”

Emphasizing that they are ready to take the necessary measures urgently in coordination with the international community, Sayan said, “We once again emphasize that serious sanctions must be applied against global cyber vulnerabilities. Combating digital surveillance and cyber espionage is an inseparable part of our national security. Based on the results of the cyber threat intelligence work conducted by USOM, we recommend that our citizens using iOS devices pay attention to the following security measures.”

PAY ATTENTION TO THESE!

Regarding the measures taken, Sayan stated, “To reduce risks and protect our personal data, update the vital iOS operating system to the latest version. Review your iMessage and FaceTime settings and disable them temporarily if necessary. Ensure account security by using strong passwords and update passwords at regular intervals.

Enable multi-factor authentication (2FA). Be careful with messages from suspicious or unknown individuals.

Avoid installing applications from untrusted sources. Avoid clicking on malicious or unknown links. Regularly check the permissions granted to the applications you use. Limit the access of applications to sensitive data such as the camera, microphone, and photos. Activate wireless connection features only when needed.

Use location services only when necessary and restrict access to location services for unnecessary applications. Prevent the automatic saving of username and password information in the Safari web browser application. We will follow this process until the end. I thank our USOM teams for their critical work,” he said.