Siri security flaw allows iPhone 4S to be controlled even if locked topic



A security flaw has been discovered with Apple’s new iPhone 4S which allows anyone to send e-mails and text messages using the handset’s voice-activated personal assistant Siri, even if the phone is locked.


Apple's iPhone 4S
Apple’s new iPhone 4S comes with a voice-activated personal assistant called Siri (Pic: Getty)

The issue was first flagged up last week by Macworld contributor Scott McNulty and has since been confirmed by a number of leading tech sites.


Even if the phone is locked with a passcode, you can still hold down the Home button on the iPhone 4S to activate Siri and begin composing and sending text messages or emails.


The feature was no doubt implemented to help the user send messages as quickly as possible, but unfortunately Siri isn’t programmed to respond to only one voice, so anyone can use the phone to create emails and texts.


To stop Siri reacting to the commands of anyone who picks up their iPhone 4S, users need to set a passcode lock which in turn will allow you to turn off Siri access in the locking settings.


Writing on the subject, Graham Cluley, a senior technology consultant at Sophos, said: ‘What’s disappointing to me though is that Apple had a clear choice here.


‘They could have chosen to implement Siri securely, but instead they decided to default to a mode which is more about impressing your buddies than securing your calendar and e-mail system.’


Apple has yet to comment on the reports.


Video: Watch the security flaws with Siri being demonstrated :