iOS bug can force iPhones to call 911 repeatedly
A teenager was arrested for spreading a malicious link on Twitter that forces iPhone to repeatedly call 911. The moment users clicked on the link, the bug started to work and it forced iPhones to dial a pre-determined number like 911.
The bug was set to open multiple apps and freezes the user interface of the device, which made it totally impossible to cancel the call. While this link was distributed on Twitter countless 911 call centers could be flooded with calls by people who clicked to link accidently as reported on Tech Site.
Recently in Arizona a teenager was arrested because his local 911 call center received more than 100 calls in just a few minutes. As stated on Gizmodo,the Maricopa County Sheriff's office also said that authorities in California and Texas were also affected.
The best part about the bug is that Apple previously fixed it a long time ago when the iOS 3 was released. But there were limitations as it applied only to Apple's own browser Safari. The patch that Apple created did not include other browsers like that operates within applications like Twitter or Linked In.
Collin Mulliner discovered the details of the bug, he stated that he submitted the details to Apple hoping that they would resolve the issue. There have been many instances that have occurred earlier, but now it seems like the ball is in Apple's court and they need to find a way to patch this bug very soon.
It might take a few days to figure out the solution, until then everyone hopes that they will not accidently call 911 over and over again. Issues like this need to be solved quickly as it will be difficult to differentiate between a person who calls for help and the victim who dials unknowingly.
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