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Experts are sounding the alarm about selecting an option in iPhone settings that could make users vulnerable to hackers, according to the New York Post.
“Auto-Join” automatically connects phones and other devices to public hotspots and networks in places such as cafes, bars, and restaurants.
The feature certainly seems convenient, as users don't have to search for a WiFi network themselves – but it also opens the door to hackers, giving them access to personal information like passwords, photos and bank accounts.
Experts warn about the risk of choosing Automatic, advising users to instead choose either Never or Ask to Join.
If a hacker is hosting a hotspot in a location, your phone could potentially automatically join and connect to their network, giving the cybercriminal access to your data.
Hackers often set up WiFi networks with names that look similar to what you would assume is legitimate, like “Cafe1,” in the hopes that you will mistakenly connect to it.
Once connected, cybercriminals can use online victim profiling to steal identities and data from anything you type online.
They can also install malware on the device, allowing them to access your data – even after you log out.
Leaving WiFi on makes the device vulnerable to a new key injection attack – also known as a “KRACK” attack – which manipulates access protected by encryption keys and creates a secure connection that allows data to be stolen over the network when in close proximity.
The National Security Agency (NSA) has advised iPhone users not to connect to public WiFi in general, adding that those who are connected to an external network should disable their Bluetooth if not in use.
Leaving Bluetooth enabled can lead to a "BlueBorne" attack, which is when a hacker takes control of the device without any interaction from the phone user.
This could result in cyber espionage, data theft, or a ransomware attack.
Disabling “Auto-Join” is pretty easy. Open Settings on your iPhone, select WiFi.
Experts advise users to choose either Never or Ask to Join.
For greater security, tech experts also suggest disabling the Auto-Join Networks setting, which automatically connects devices to known networks.
To ensure your phone doesn't connect to outside networks, make sure to turn off Wi-Fi before leaving the house.
Additionally, if you temporarily connect to a network outside your home that you don't plan to use again, you can remove it by tapping on the network and selecting Forget This Network.
On the other hand, there is also an option to allow your device to automatically join that specific network once connected if you plan to use it regularly.
The NSA also advises iPhone users to reboot their devices every week to prevent hackers from being able to manipulate open URLs and execute code that will install malware.
Completely turning off the phone will reset all open websites and applications, as well as log out of bank accounts.
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