A single line of text is shutting down iPhones around the world. Several tech websites are reporting that a specific malicious, intentional text message can cause iPhones to crash, shut down and turn back on.
Even worse, some users are even having trouble accessing their messages again afterward. And no, the message – which involves both Arabic and Chinese letters – is not something that will be sent on accident. It’s unclear how the message originated and Apple hasn’t commented on the issue.
Experts at CNET say you’re likely to get it because someone you know chose to send it to you on purpose.
CNET senior editor Jeff Bakalar described the exploit as a “popular prank” that can only be perpetrated by someone who has your phone number. “It’s probably not going to happen to you unless someone you know, who has your number, targets you.”
What do you do when you’ve been targeted? “Ask the person who sent you the message to send you a follow up message and that seems to undo the damage,” said Bakaler. “If you have a MAC, you can have Siri send you a message to wake it up and that will undo the damage as well.”
