Image Credit: NurPhoto via Getty Images
The FBI is warning all iPhone and Android users to take action to prevent potential hacks. According to a recent report by Forbes, the Federal Bureau of Investigation has been actively monitoring this issue, as texting between different platforms can be riskier than texting within the same phone ecosystem. Jeff Greene, the Executive Assistant Director for Cybersecurity at CISA, shared with Politico, “Strongly urging Americans to ‘use your encrypted communications where you have it… we definitely need to do that, kind of look at what it means long-term, how we secure our networks.”
This warning focuses on the risks of using unsecured messaging methods across devices. Below, learn more about the FBI’s advice and how to protect personal data.
Jaap Arriens/NurPhoto via Getty Images
FBI Warning for iPhone & Android Users
The FBI has stressed the importance of using devices that “automatically receive timely operating system updates, responsibly managed encryption, and phishing-resistant multi-factor authentication (MFA) for email, social media, and collaboration tool accounts,” as reported by Forbes. This is a crucial step in safeguarding your communications and minimizing the risk of cyberattacks, particularly for those who rely on smartphones for personal and business-related tasks.
Can an iPhone User Text an Android User?
If communication between an iPhone and Android user is necessary, the FBI advises against sending regular text messages. Instead, they recommend using third-party apps, such as WhatsApp, which provide end-to-end encryption. According to Forbes, Greene stated, “Our suggestion, what we have told folks internally, is not new here: encryption is your friend, whether it’s on text messaging or if you have the capacity to use encrypted voice communication. Even if the adversary is able to intercept the data, if it is encrypted, it will make it impossible.”
What is Salt Typhoon?
Per The Conversation, “According to the FBI, Salt Typhoon allowed Chinese officials to obtain a large amount of records showing where, when and who specific individuals were communicating with. In some cases, they noted that Salt Typhoon gave access to the contents of phone calls and text messages as well.”
