Apple Patches Group FaceTime Eavesdropping Bug With iOS Update
Apple releases iOS 12.1.4 to fix the Group FaceTime bug that allowed users to eavesdrop on others before they answered a call. Lawmakers demand answers regarding the company's delayed response to the security flaw.
Apple releases iOS 12.1.4 to fix the Group FaceTime bug that allows users to listen in on someone before they answer a call. The company previously disables the feature after reports of the eavesdropping flaw surface, and it promises a swift resolution. Users must install this latest update to regain access to Group FaceTime, as the feature remains offline for anyone running iOS 12.1.3 or earlier.
The fallout from the security breach continues as the House Energy and Commerce Committee demands answers from Apple. Lawmakers want the tech giant to explain exactly what it knew about the vulnerability and when, especially since a teenager and his mother report the issue a full week before it becomes public knowledge. The committee expects Apple to detail its response and its plans to assist affected users by February 19th.
Alongside the primary FaceTime repair, Apple reveals that its security audit uncovers a separate issue with Live Photos. The company includes a fix for this additional vulnerability within the iOS 12.1.4 update, though it shares very few details about the exact nature of the Live Photos flaw.