Apple is working on a fix for a worrying bug that causes Siri to read out iPhone users’ notifications, even when hidden behind the lock screen.
Earlier this week Brazil’s MacMagazine reported anyone could access the notifications simply by saying “Hey Siri read my notifications.”
Naturally, that had some iOS users spooked.
The bug, which affects the current iOS 11.2.6 version as well as the iOS 11.3 beta, negates the choice many Apple users make to hide the contents of notifications from their home screen.
In a statement on Thursday (via MacRumors) Apple said: “We are aware of this issue and it will be addressed in an upcoming software update.”
Related: iOS 12: What to expect?
With iOS 11.3 thought to be imminent, Apple may chose to bundle in the fix. It could also release another small iOS 11.2.7 update to bridge the gap.
In the meantime there are a couple of measures iOS users can take to protect themselves from harm:
- Turn off lock screen notifications for these sensitive apps (Settings > Notifications > select app > Show on Lock Screen).
- Disable Siri when the iPhone or iPad is locked (Settings > Siri & Search > Allow Siri When Locked)
Many apps like WhatsApp or Mail can offer previews showing a few lines of text, but privacy savvy users tend to switch these off. This way they can see snooping third-parties can see the notification but not its contents.
Ironically, the Apple Messages app seems to be somewhat immune from the bug because you need to say “Ok Siri read my messages.”
Have you endured any embarrassing moments courtesy of Apple’s personal assistant? Drop us a line @TrustedReviews on Twitter.
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Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
