Key Points:
- Apple’s Find My network has a vulnerability that allows hackers to track any Bluetooth device, including non-Apple devices, silently.
- The exploit, called "nRootTag," has a 90% success rate and doesn’t require advanced administrator privileges.
- While Apple has acknowledged the issue, a fix may take years to roll out, and users should update their devices and be cautious with Bluetooth access to prevent potential hacking.
Breaches in security have become a growing concern in the tech world, and a recent report from George Mason University researchers has uncovered a significant flaw in Apple’s Find My network. The Find My network is designed to help users track their Apple devices, such as iPhones and AirTags, but the researchers have discovered a way to exploit this system to track any Bluetooth device, without the owner’s knowledge or consent.
The exploit, dubbed "nRootTag," uses a system of "hundreds" of GPUs to find the correct cryptographic key that lets the attacker bypass security measures and gain access to the device. This means that hackers can track devices and even stalk people by using Apple’s own network.
The researchers demonstrated the effectiveness of the exploit by tracking a computer’s location with an accuracy of 10 feet, as well as reconstructing a person’s flight path by tracking their game console. Needless to say, the potential consequences are chilling, and the researchers urge caution.
Apple was informed about the exploit in July 2024, but so far, the company has yet to release a fix. The researchers warn that it may take years for a solution to roll out, as not everyone will immediately update their devices. In the meantime, users are advised to be cautious and keep their devices’ software up-to-date. Specifically, they should never allow unnecessary access to their device’s Bluetooth and keep their software updated.
What You Can Do:
To protect yourself from this exploit, consider the following:
- Always keep your device’s software updated to the latest version.
- Limit access to your device’s Bluetooth and only allow necessary apps to access it.
- Be cautious when giving permission to apps to access your device’s Bluetooth.
- Consider using a tracker device, such as an AirTag, with the correct setup and configuration.
Remember, it’s essential to stay vigilant and take steps to protect your devices and data in this ever-growing digital landscape. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story and follow our coverage for the latest Apple news and trends.
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