FaceTime Bug Allows Eavesdropping on Users

Cybersecurity experts are urging users to temporarily disable FaceTime after a dangerous bug was discovered in the app. This vulnerability allows a caller to access another person’s microphone and camera-even if the recipient doesn’t answer the call. Numerous videos demonstrating the issue have surfaced on social media.

How the FaceTime Bug Works

1. Start a FaceTime call with any of your contacts.
2. While the call is ringing, swipe up and select “Add Person.”
3. Enter your own phone number and start a Group FaceTime call, adding yourself as another participant.
4. The victim’s microphone will turn on, allowing you to listen in-even if they haven’t answered. The victim will not notice anything unusual.
5. Additionally, if the victim presses the Power button during the call, the attacker can also access video from the device’s front-facing camera.

Experts and many users have confirmed that the bug affects iOS 12.1 and 12.2, as well as at least macOS Mojave.

Apple’s Response

Apple representatives have stated that they are already working to fix the issue, and a patch is expected by the end of the current week. Additionally, a few hours ago, the company took Group FaceTime offline to protect users from widespread exploitation of the bug.