Apple confirmed a FaceTime bug that is making some iPhone and Mac users wary.
The bug appeared on iPhone versions iOS 12.1 and Macs running the latest version of Mac OS Mojave. It allowed senders of group FaceTime requests to eavesdrop on recipients while the FaceTime call is ringing and also after it has been declined. Some media outlets reported the potential to access users’ “notes” through a weakness in iCloud.
Apple has since apologized for the bug and disabled the group FaceTime feature until the company resolved the issue earlier this week.
This came not long after a viral tweet last month alerted AirPod owners of the capability to turn your iPhone into a listening device. The feature, meant for users with hearing disabilities, allows you to leave your iPhone in another room and eavesdrop from a distance.
Advancing technology is a part of everyday life, with almost unlimited information at people’s fingertips. Personal assistants like Siri and Amazon Alexa can sync home lighting and temperature controls as well as entertainment systems. Most individuals carry their phone with them at all times and spend very little of their day away from digital devices. Along with those advances come serious cybersecurity concerns.
Across campus, some students cover laptop webcams with things like Post-its, stickers and tape. Constant exposure to technology also comes with some distrust. Online safety is one of the top priorities among technology users today.
“I am a little (concerned), but then again I’m out here just being a normal person, I don’t really feel like I’m a target,” said Sabrina Smith, ’21.
Other students felt differently. “Yeah it makes me nervous,” said Kayla Allen, ‘20. “I always thought it was weird when you’re sitting there talking about something and you go on your Facebook and your Facebook has an ad for that, it’s kind of weird.”
Allen also said she keeps a sticker over her webcam for safe measure. Cassandra Smith, ‘21, said, “I don’t really get nervous… I should probably start.”
Most students had heard about the bug but none had experienced it themselves, nor did they test it.
Apple has promised to be more careful when releasing updates. They said they will work toward being more receptive to consumer reports of possible bugs. Although the feature was disabled, some users still reported the bug. Apple encourages users to update to the latest software.
