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
Widow looking for answers after Quebec man dies in Texas Ironman competition
The widow of a Quebec man who died competing in an Ironman competition is looking for answers.
Tom Mulcair: Park littered with trash after 'pilot project' is perfect symbol of Trudeau governance
Former NDP leader Tom Mulcair says that what's happening now in a trash-littered federal park in Quebec is a perfect metaphor for how the Trudeau government runs things.
World seeing near breakdown of international law amid wars in Gaza and Ukraine, Amnesty says
The world is seeing a near breakdown of international law amid flagrant rule-breaking in Gaza and Ukraine, multiplying armed conflicts, the rise of authoritarianism and huge rights violations in Sudan, Ethiopia and Myanmar, Amnesty International warned Wednesday as it published its annual report.
Photographer alleges he was forced to watch Megan Thee Stallion have sex and was unfairly fired
A photographer who worked for Megan Thee Stallion said in a lawsuit filed Tuesday that he was forced to watch her have sex, was unfairly fired soon after and was abused as her employee.
Amid concerns over 'collateral damage' Trudeau, Freeland defend capital gains tax change
Facing pushback from physicians and businesspeople over the coming increase to the capital gains inclusion rate, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his deputy Chrystia Freeland are standing by their plan to target Canada's highest earners.
U.S. Senate passes bill forcing TikTok's parent company to sell or face ban, sends to Biden for signature
The Senate passed legislation Tuesday that would force TikTok's China-based parent company to sell the social media platform under the threat of a ban, a contentious move by U.S. lawmakers that's expected to face legal challenges.
Wildfire southwest of Peace River spurs evacuation order
People living near a wildfire burning about 15 kilometres southwest of Peace River are being told to evacuate their homes.
U.S. Senate overwhelmingly passes aid for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan with big bipartisan vote
The U.S. Senate has passed US$95 billion in war aid to Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan, sending the legislation to President Joe Biden after months of delays and contentious debate over how involved the United States should be in foreign wars.
'My stomach dropped': Winnipeg man speaks out after being criminally harassed following single online date
A Winnipeg man said a single date gone wrong led to years of criminal harassment, false arrests, stress and depression.