Hackers Spy iPhone Users Using Malicious Keyboard Apps

A new method of keylogging using malicious keyboard apps has been discovered to affect iPhones, evading all Apple’s security detection procedures.

Additionally, threat actors could also use this method to steal passwords, authentication codes, notes, private messages, etc.,

There have been many spyware application developers who have used this technique and also offer keylogging services for just $30.

As iPhones are considered the most secure devices, this particular method of keylogging proves a significant risk for Apple users.

Hackers Spy iPhone Users

As per the reports shared with Cyber Security News, this new technique has no prerequisites for exploitation and is compatible with all iPhone models.

This technique abuses an existing feature within the iOS system and is simple to exploit.

The threat actor can set up a custom keyboard on the victim’s device in a specific manner that logs all the keystrokes on the device and sends them to an online portal. The threat actor can access this portal from anywhere in the world. 

The fact that this technique was possible is because of the lenient review process of TestFlight apps. TestFlight is a platform for developers to test iOS apps before launching them on the App Store.

TestFlight apps do not have a strict review process as other applications when launching to the public.

How to Identify and Prevent?

These malicious keyboards appear almost identical to Apple’s default keyboard which makes it difficult to find.

To provide a short note, Apple only has two keyboards by default, which are “English (US)” and “Emoji.” Hence, any other keyboards that are not recognized could be malicious and must be removed immediately.

In order to delete an unrecognized keyboard, the below steps can be followed,

• Tap Edit
• Tap on the Red “-” button on the unknown keyboard
• Tap Delete

A complete report about this technique and method has been published, providing detailed information on the method, portal, cybercriminals, and others.

Users are recommended to follow the above steps to prevent any malicious keyboards from logging their activities.