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Update Your iPhone to Fix FaceTime Privacy Bug

by Elizabeth Harper on February 08, 2019

Last week, we found out about a serious privacy bug in Apple devices: an easy-to-use exploit allowed people to listen in on your conversations through FaceTime. The bug allowed people to place a FaceTime call and, while it was still ringing, turn it into a group call and invite themselves to the newly info the newly made conference call. This roundabout series of clicks let callers join a FaceTime call before you even answered it — and they could listen you audio and view video without your knowledge.

Apple shut down the FaceTime servers to prevent anyone from taking advantage of the bug, but this week, the company released a patch to fix the problem on both iOS and MacOS. The FaceTime servers are now back online, but before you can start using FaceTime again, Apple requires you to update. But even if you aren't a FaceTime fan, you should install this update anyway, as it contains other bug fixes

Keeping your device up to date is key to keeping your phone, tablet or computer safe: taking a few minutes to install this patch is worth it. And because it takes just a few clicks (and a tiny bit of download time), there's no excuse not to update right now.  Here's how to do it.

Update your iPhone or iPad

  • Open Settings
  • Select General
  • Select Software Update
  • Select Download and Install

Once the update downloads, you should get a pop-up telling you it's ready to install. From there, just follow the on-screen prompts.

Update your Mac

  • Click the Apple icon in the upper left of your screen
  • Select System Preferences
  • Select Software Update
  • Select Update Now

Once the update downloads, click Update Now. Your computer will warn you it needs to restart after updating, so click Restart to install the update and reboot your computer.

If you turned off FaceTime when you heard about the bug, you'll have to reactivate it before you can use it again, which takes a few more clicks.

On your iPhone or iPad

  • Open Settings
  • Select FaceTime
  • Toggle on FaceTime

On your Mac

  • Open the FaceTime app
  • Select FaceTime in the menu bar
  • Select Turn FaceTime On

Now you're ready to use FaceTime again. 

[Image credit: hand holding iPhone Xs via BigStockPhoto]


Topics

iPhone/iPad Apps, News, Phones and Mobile, Mobile Apps, Blog


Discussion loading

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From Techto Review on April 03, 2020 :: 9:53 am


To grab some memorable memories on video calling with your friends, relatives, boyfriend and girlfriend, start the FaceTime on your phone. Don’t worry, if you haven’t started the FaceTime app on your iPhone and are willing to do it now.

How to use FaceTime is not rocket science and if you’ve found it tough then we are here to assist you.

Reply

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