Why Apple devices aren't untouchable when it comes to getting hacked
For many years people assumed Apple devices were untouchable to cyber threats because they were too tough to hack, but experts say that’s not the case anymore.
Consumer Reports said while many owners of iPhones, iPads and Mac computers may have thought they didn't need anti-virus software, a recent wave of attacks against Apple products are causing concern.
"I’ve always thought Apple products were safer. That’s why I went with them to begin with," Apple user Mark Doherty said.
The good news is researchers say with a few simple steps you can keep your Apple devices safe.
Experts say all connected technology carries some level of risk.
Over the past year, Apple has rolled out a slew of software updates to fix flaws and even some critical vulnerabilities, including at least one that could have left Apple users susceptible to dangerous malware had the patch not been installed.
“Don’t ignore operating system and app updates. This is where known security flaws are fixed, but it is up to you to install them," Bree Fowler, Tech Editor with Consumer Reports said.
To make sure your iPhone or iPad is up to date go to settings, then general and then software update.
On a Mac computer go to Launchpad, then system preferences and then software update.
If your device isn’t getting OS updates because it’s too old, Consumer Reports said it’s best to replace it.
You should also be aware of phishing attempts as they are one of the more common ways users get hacked.
“Most of the time, cyber criminals can only get access to your device if you give them a way, say by clicking on a malicious link, or an attachment in an email, or even a social media post,"Fowler said.
If you thought Apple products don’t need antivirus software, researchers said think again.
Consumer Reports recommends AVG antivirus for Mac. Testers found the free software easy to use and especially good at shielding online threats.
On your iPhone antivirus software can do things like block malicious websites, calls, and texts but because of Apple's security restrictions, antivirus software can’t scan iPhones for viruses.
“I never really thought that I needed antivirus or anything like that. I thought the security was already built into their IOS systems,"Doherty said
Since the security isn’t foolproof, Doherty says he’s thinking about adding extra protection to all his Apple devices
No matter what brand of phone, tablet or computer you have make sure you're using strong passwords with all your online accounts.
Use random words, numbers and special characters and consider using a password manager so you don't have to remember them all.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
BREAKING Security guard shot, seriously injured outside of Drake's Toronto mansion
A security guard working at Drake’s Bridle Path mansion in Toronto was seriously injured in a shooting outside the residence early Tuesday morning, police said.
King Charles too busy to see son Prince Harry during U.K. trip
Prince Harry will not be seeing his father King Charles during his current visit to Britain as the monarch will be too busy, Harry's spokesperson said on Tuesday.
Your body needs these three forms of movement every week
Movement is movement, right? Not exactly. Here’s what your body is looking for in addition to your morning walk or yoga session, according to experts.
'It looked so legit': Ontario man pays $7,700 for luxury villa found on Booking.com, but the listing was fake
An Ontario man says he paid more than $7,700 for a luxury villa he found on a popular travel website -- but the listing was fake.
Canadian cadets rock mullets and place second at U.S. military competition
Sporting mullets, Canadian Armed Forces officer cadets placed second in an annual military skills competition in the U.S.
The Met Gala was in full bloom with Zendaya, Jennifer Lopez, Mindy Kaling among the standout stars
The Met Gala and its fashionista A-listers on Monday included Jennifer Lopez, Zendaya and a parade of others in a swirl of flora and fauna looks on a green-tinged carpet lined by live foliage.
Quebec to limit sperm donations per donor after 3 men from same family father hundreds of children
Quebec is looking at tightening the regulations around sperm donation in the province following the release of a documentary that revealed three men from the same family fathered hundreds of children.
How to overcome 'savings guilt' when you're living paycheque to paycheque
As the higher cost of living continues to squeeze household budgets, many Canadians find they have even less left over at the end of every month to squirrel away for the future.
There's actually no such thing as vegetables. Here's why you should eat them anyway
The rumours are true: Vegetables aren't real — that is, in botany, anyway. While the term fruit is recognized botanically as anything that contains a seed or seeds, vegetable is actually a broad umbrella term.