Apple Issues Statement on iOS 'Masque Attack'

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Posted November 14, 2014 at 7:57am by Shalom Levytam

Following an alert from the U.S. government, Apple has issued a statement on 'Masque Attack', a hacking technique that exploits a vulnerability in iOS and allows an attacker to substitute malware for a legitimate app.

Apple told iMore:

"We designed OS X and iOS with built-in security safeguards to help protect customers and warn them before installing potentially malicious software," an Apple spokesperson told iMore. "We're not aware of any customers that have actually been affected by this attack. We encourage customers to only download from trusted sources like the App Store and to pay attention to any warnings as they download apps. Enterprise users installing custom apps should install apps from their company's secure website."

The company also posted a knowledge base article which warns users not to install apps from Untrusted Developers.

If you download an app and see an alert that identifies it as coming from an “Untrusted App Developer,” tap Don't Trust and delete the app from your device.

Never install apps from third-party websites or links you don't recognize and trust, even if the app name seems familiar.

You can learn more about how Masque Attack works here. Please follow iClarified on Twitter, Facebook, or RSS for updates.

Apple Issues Statement on iOS 'Masque Attack'

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Applefan2014 - November 16, 2014 at 10:17pm

What apps do I need to watch out for?? And r all the apps safe 2 download

Archie134 - November 15, 2014 at 6:01am

It's a shame that we can't use this as a forum to inform instead of all of the childish remarks.

Guest - November 14, 2014 at 2:20pm

Im using xmodgames should I be worried? They are always pushing me to update and install their updates.

Simon says - November 14, 2014 at 2:55pm

You will be fine with that, just make sure you install from trusted well known repo's

Ren - November 14, 2014 at 9:14am

Is this iOS Masque Attack vulnerability similar to malware issues or system crashes seen on other platforms?

odedoo1 - November 16, 2014 at 7:34am

Actually it's not a myth but it's not a virus or a firmware problem, I've seen the blue screen a few times at my Lab and it's always after the iPhone fell hard with a broken screen, also it only happens to iPhones with a fingerprint sensor, I don't know if even Apple know why it's happening but they say that it got something to do with the security, like if someone tries to change parts on a stolen phone. Usually it's not a problem and goes away after I replace the screen and restore but one broken iPhone 5S I couldn't fix also 3 other Labs couldn't find the source of the problem and I had to give it back to the customer with the blue screen.