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Lockdown Mode

All articles tagged with #lockdown mode

technology3 hours ago•2 min saved

Apple Alerts Targeted Users of State-Grade Spyware, Urges Lockdown and Expert Help

Apple has issued high-confidence warnings to users suspected of being targeted by mercenary spyware (such as Pegasus), updated its alert interface, and published a new support page with steps to protect data. Recipients are advised to enable Lockdown Mode and seek rapid expert assistance through Access Now’s Digital Security Helpline; while a notification signals activity consistent with an attack, it does not guarantee data has been compromised and Apple cannot reveal targeting criteria to avoid evasion.

via Engadget|

#apple #digital-security-helpline #lockdown-mode

technology10 hours ago•3 min saved

Apple expands mercenary spyware alerts to 110 countries

Apple has notified users in 110 countries that they may have been targeted by mercenary spyware; the company published a new threat-notifications article with guidance and recommended steps such as updating devices, using strong passwords and two-factor authentication, enabling Lockdown Mode, and seeking help from the Digital Security Helpline at Access Now. This wave adds to a multi-year total of alerts reaching more than 150 countries.

via 9to5Mac|

#apple #lockdown-mode #mercenary-spyware

technology2 months ago•2 min saved

OpenAI Adds Lockdown Mode to ChatGPT to curb data exfiltration risks

OpenAI is rolling out an optional Lockdown Mode for eligible ChatGPT users to reduce data exfiltration risk from prompt injections by restricting outbound web access and other capabilities (live web browsing, image display, network access, and file downloads); it complements existing safeguards, cannot be used with Developer Mode, and does not guarantee complete protection, with risk potentially remaining via apps or new techniques; the update also adds a separate account-management feature to review and log out active sessions.

via The Hacker News|

#chatgpt #data-exfiltration #lockdown-mode

technology4 months ago•71 min saved

Apple says Lockdown Mode has never been hacked and shows how to turn it on

Apple maintains that Lockdown Mode, its extreme security feature for iPhone, iPad, and Mac, has not been breached by mercenary spyware, a claim echoed by security experts who say they’ve seen attacks blocked but no confirmed compromises. Lockdown Mode dramatically limits attach ments, calls from unknown numbers, wired device connections, and Safari restrictions; it’s off by default and can be enabled or disabled in Settings > Privacy & Security, with a restart and PIN required each time, though users should be prepared for trade-offs in usability.

via TechRadar|

#apple #iphone #lockdown-mode

technology4 months ago•2 min saved

Apple issues lock-screen alerts for aging iPhones amid rising web-exploit threats

Apple is sending lock-screen alerts to older iPhones and iPads to urge updating after the discovery of web-based exploit kits like Coruna and DarkSword that target specific iOS versions. Analysts warn these kits reflect a growing zero‑day market and could enable wider exploitation; users who can’t update are advised to enable Lockdown Mode if available, though Apple says no known mercenary spyware has targeted Lockdown-enabled devices.

via The Hacker News|

#apple #coruna #exploit-kits

technology4 months ago•5 min saved

Apple: Lockdown Mode Has Not Been Hacked by Mercenary Spyware

Apple says no Lockdown Mode-enabled device has suffered a successful mercenary spyware attack. Lockdown Mode drastically restricts features to protect high-risk users, and researchers say no proven bypass has been observed, although some spyware attempts have tried to detect Lockdown Mode.

via MacRumors|

#apple #cybersecurity #iphone

technology6 months ago•9 min saved

Lockdown Mode Foils FBI Access to Journalist's iPhone

The FBI says it cannot access data on Washington Post reporter Hannah Natanson’s iPhone because the device was in Apple’s Lockdown Mode, a high-security setting designed to guard against sophisticated cyberattacks. Agents could unlock Natanson’s work MacBook Pro with her fingerprint and could read at least some Signal messages from another device, but full extraction from the iPhone was blocked by Lockdown Mode. A court standstill ordered paused further imaging, while the investigation—centered on a Pentagon contractor accused of leaking classified material—continues to raise questions about journalistic First Amendment protections versus government needs. Apple’s Lockdown Mode, introduced in 2022, tightens restrictions on apps, websites, and features to reduce exposure to highly targeted spyware.

via Ars Technica|

#apple #fbi #journalist

mobile-security2 years ago•3 min saved

Beware of Sneaky Fake Lockdown Mode Attack on iPhones

Security experts have warned iPhone users about a new technique that allows hackers to visually deceive victims into believing their device is in Lockdown Mode when it's actually not. The method involves manipulating the Lockdown Mode setting on compromised devices, giving users a false sense of security. By hooking certain functions and creating a fake Lockdown Mode file, attackers can bypass the security measure and continue to run malware in the background. This technique highlights the need for users to remain vigilant and stay updated with the latest security patches.

via The Hacker News|

#fake-lockdown-mode #iphone #lockdown-mode

technology2 years ago•10 min saved

"Apple's Determined Efforts to Crack Open Its Own iPhones"

Apple is investing significant resources in securing its devices against advanced attacks, including working on hardware technologies and testing them in its facilities in Paris. The company's security engineers use advanced techniques, such as lasers and finely tuned sensors, to identify and patch any vulnerabilities in its devices before they are released. This proactive approach is necessary because hardware cannot be easily updated like software. Apple's focus on security is driven by the increasing proliferation of technology and the rise of sophisticated attacks, such as the highly targeted spyware Pegasus. The company aims to build devices that are safe from both hardware and software attacks, ensuring the privacy and safety of its users. However, Apple's emphasis on security has also put it in a difficult geopolitical situation, as it may face challenges from governments and powerful agencies. Additionally, the European Union's Digital Markets Act could potentially require Apple to allow sideloading of apps, a move that the company opposes due to concerns about user choice and security.

via The Independent|

#apple #geopolitics #iphone

technology2 years ago•10 min saved

"Apple's Lockdown Mode: Safeguarding iPhones from State-Sponsored Cyberattacks"

Apple has introduced a new feature called Lockdown Mode for iPhone and iPad devices running iOS 16 or later versions, designed to protect against sophisticated cyberattacks. Signs that you might be under attack include unusual device behavior, unfamiliar apps or files, suspicious messages or calls, and unusual charges or data usage. When Lockdown Mode is enabled, certain features are restricted or disabled for security reasons. While it limits functionality, Lockdown Mode provides a strong layer of protection. Users can enable Lockdown Mode in the Settings app, and Apple recommends updating software, changing passwords, and reviewing iCloud settings for additional security. Lockdown Mode is intended for individuals at high risk of targeted attacks, but it can be used as a precautionary measure for anyone concerned about privacy and security.

via Fox News|

#cybersecurity #iphone #lockdown-mode