Warning to 1.4 billion iPhone users... Your data could be stolen: Call to turn off 'those' features

iPhone users have been warned to turn off the automatic Wi-Fi, location services, and tracking features that are enabled by default on their devices. Cybersecurity experts stated that these settings could lead to the leakage of personal data to hackers. Pointing out that cyberattacks have increased in 2024, experts expressed that users need to be cautious.

Apple officials acknowledged that having automatic Wi-Fi, location services, and tracking features enabled could lead to the theft of sensitive information such as users' identity and credit card details, as well as home addresses. Officials warned iPhone users to be careful.

According to a report by the Daily Mail, the automatic Wi-Fi feature caused the device to constantly search for available networks and connect to them automatically when found. This increased the risk of connecting to insecure access points controlled by hackers.

Experts, noting that such attacks have increased in 2024, emphasized that iPhone users often become targets in public areas due to the automatic Wi-Fi feature being enabled.

LOCATION SERVICES CREATE A SECURITY VULNERABILITY

Having location services constantly enabled allows apps to track users' exact movements. This information can be used by third parties for malicious purposes. For example, in January, hackers seized data from the location aggregator Gravy Analytics.

To manage location services, the Settings app is opened. After entering the Privacy & Security section, the Location Services option is selected. In this menu, location access permissions for each app are checked. While the 'While Using' option is preferred for apps like Maps and Weather, the 'Never' option is selected for other apps.

HOW TO TURN OFF THE APP TRACKING FEATURE?

Apple’s App Tracking Transparency feature allows users to see which apps are collecting data. This feature prevents apps from collecting information such as user ID, name, or email address.

To manage App Tracking Transparency, the Settings app is opened. After entering the Privacy & Security section, the Tracking option is selected. In this menu, the 'Allow Apps to Request to Track' option is turned off.

To disable the automatic Wi-Fi feature, the Settings app is opened and then the Wi-Fi option is tapped. Then, the 'Auto-Join Hotspot' option is found and changed to 'Never'.

News Source: 12punto