As much as I’d like to say it, the answer isn’t “buy an Android”.
Hackers are using Apple’s “Find My” service to hold people’s devices at ransom. Allegedly, they’re running rampant. And two-factor identification does nothing to help.
The service is meant to help you remotely lock down your phone or computer and hopefully recover it should it be lost or stolen. It functions as an obvious theft deterrent, because a device locked in that way is functionally useless. The kicker is that you can send a message to the device, and therein lay the rub.
Y'all my MacBook been locked and hacked. Someone help me @apple @AppleSupport pic.twitter.com/BE110TMgSv
— payrollgiovanni (@bunandsomesauce) September 16, 2017
While the service is meant to be convenient for users, all a hacker needs is your username and password to sneak in and take control of your device. And they let you know what they want from you to regain access, thanks to the message feature.
As per usual for these sorts of things, the users in question usually used the same ID and password across multiple accounts, meaning the hackers didn’t even need to get ahold of data from Apple’s servers to screw you. So, as usual, the smart thing to do if you haven’t been affected yet is to make sure your login credentials are secured. Change your password, reserve it somewhere safe in meatspace.
As for those already affected by the lock? Well, you’re going to have to get in touch with Apple’s support team. My recommendation for your next password is to avoid using “swordfish“. Or, you know, you can just disable the “Find My” service and call it all good.
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