Apple has just launched the iPhone 15, but it seems like the new smartphone still includes a vulnerability that thieves can use to get a device. This is through a marketing feature that allows thieves to steal accounts.
Apple Promoted a Feature Used by Criminals to Steal User's Apple ID Account Passwords
According to the story by Business Insider, Apple is reportedly trying to market a certain security feature after being spotted by the Wall Street Journal. It was noted that thieves were able to steal thousands of dollars by using stolen iPhones.
It was noted that despite the feature posing a risk to users, Apple still markets it, making it easier for criminals to use. As seen on X, Apple reportedly showed a short video that reveals how users will be able to change their Apple ID account passwords.
The post literally shows how users can easily reset their Apple ID password on the iPhone or iPad, which comes just months after an investigation was launched by the Wall Street Journal. As per the investigation, it was noted that the feature is being utilized by thieves.
Criminals Use the Feature to Steal a Person's Money and Lock Them Out of Their Account
These criminals can use the feature in order to lock users out of their very own accounts. The accounts can then be used for various purposes, including stealing a person's money or other nefarious acts.
The investigation highlights how the thieves would go to certain places, just like bars, and look at victims entering their own passcodes. The passcodes can be used to unlock the iPhone, and once the thieves get it, they steal the iPhone and use the passcode.
The Passcode can be Used to Change the User's Apple ID Password
After that, the thieves use the passcode again in order to change the user's Apple ID password. It was noted that when this happens, users will be logged out of their very own iCloud accounts.
It was also revealed that the thieves can easily disable the "Find my iPhone" feature in order to avoid detection. After that, they can sign out of other devices like the Mac Books and iPads linked to the smartphone and even change the phone number.
Criminals have Reportedly Stolen Up to $10,000 from Victims' Bank Accounts, with Apple Staff Not Fixing the Problem
The report also revealed that through locking users out of their own iPhones, criminals have already stolen up to $10,000 from the bank accounts of users. It was noted that users can do this either through Venmo, Zelle, or other third-party cash transfer apps.
Reyhan Ayas, an economist based in New York who experienced losing her iPhone in November, said that the Apple support team "was not helpful at all" as she tried to regain access to her iCloud.
Ayas was a victim of losing thousands of dollars from her bank account, with the thief easily opening an Apple credit card under her name. When she asked for support, she was repeatedly asked, "Have you tried Find my iPhone?."
