A new security flaw found in the iPhone’s software could give hackers “complete control” of the device. Researchers from Independent Security Evaluators, a firm that tests its clients’ computer security by attempting to hack into it, said that they were able to get access to the phone through a Wi-Fi connection or by loading a web page containing malicious code. Doing so allowed them to tap into the information contained on the phone, such as SMS text messaging records and contact information.
“Once you did manage to find a hole, you were in complete control,” said Charles A. Miller, principal security analyst for ISE. The security firm alerted Apple to the security flaw this week, and shared a recommended patch for the problem.
“Apple takes security very seriously and has a great track record of addressing potential vulnerabilities before they can affect users,” said company spokeswoman Lynn Fox. “We’re looking into the report submitted by I.S.E. and always welcome feedback on how to improve our security,” she said.