Wireless Network Security Alert: NY Attorney General Issues Warning to iPhone and Android Users

Stop Texting—New York Attorney General Warns iPhone, Android Users After Attacks

In a stern warning, New York State Attorney General Letitia James has advised iPhone and Android users to stop texting altogether in the wake of recent attacks on wireless networks. The move follows similar nationwide warnings from the FBI and CISA that Americans should prioritize encrypted messaging and calls wherever possible.

The Attorney General emphasized that standard SMS protocols are woefully insecure, leaving messages vulnerable to hacking and eavesdropping. It appears that New Yorkers can no longer rely solely on their trusty iPhone or Android devices for secure communication.

In response to the looming threat of coordinated attacks on wireless networks, James urged citizens to abandon traditional texting methods in favor of fully encrypted apps. According to her office, this precautionary measure will protect user data and safeguard against potential breaches.

While some users may be accustomed to exchanging SMS messages with friends, family, or colleagues, the Attorney General is adamant that even seemingly innocuous exchanges can put personal information at risk. She warns that account numbers, medical information, or sensitive photos should not be shared via text, as this could compromise security.

In addition to the warnings from law enforcement agencies and cybersecurity experts, James also stressed the importance of verifying app metadata before transmission. The advisory highlights vulnerabilities in newer platforms, such as RCS (Rich Communication Services), which, despite being an upgrade to SMS, lacks end-to-end encryption.

This latest guidance adds a new layer of complexity to users who may have previously relied on these services without concern for security. While WhatsApp and Signal are touted as secure options, James emphasized the need for caution when choosing messaging platforms, highlighting the differences between seemingly similar apps.

The Attorney General’s office has issued this warning in light of recent attacks on wireless networks.

Source: www.forbes.com