So, there’s this sneaky little iPhone setting that kinda leaves your personal info wide open for hackers. It’s called “Auto-Join,” and it automatically hooks your phone up to public WiFi in places like coffee shops and restaurants.
Sounds handy, right? No more digging through settings to find a network.
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But here’s the problem — it also makes it way easier for hackers to snoop through your passwords, photos, and even your bank details.
Hackers can trick your phone into connecting to fake networks
If a hacker sets up a hotspot in a public spot, your phone might just connect to it without you realizing. And once you’re on their network? They can start poking around and digging into your private stuff.
Hackers often pick WiFi names that look totally normal — like “Cafe1” — hoping you’ll connect without giving it a second thought.
Cybercriminals can steal data and install malware
Once you’re on a hacker’s network, they can start piecing together bits of your personal info — stuff like passwords, messages, and anything else you type.
And it gets worse: they might install sneaky malware that sticks around even after you disconnect, keeping the door open for future snooping.
Leaving WiFi on can lead to dangerous KRACK attacks
Leaving your WiFi on all the time can make your phone an easy target for something called a Key Reinstallation Attack, or “KRACK.”
This technique messes with your encryption keys — the things that keep your data safe — and lets hackers spy on what you’re doing when they’re nearby.
Using public WiFi and Bluetooth can invite BlueBorne attacks
The National Security Agency (NSA) actually recommends steering clear of public WiFi altogether. But if you really need to use it, make sure you turn off Bluetooth when you’re not using it.
Otherwise, you could end up with a “BlueBorne” attack, where hackers take control of your phone remotely.
No clicks, no warnings — just straight-up control. That can lead to stolen files, spying, or even ransomware.
Turning off Auto-Join is a simple and effective step
Good news: turning off Auto-Join is super simple. Just head to Settings, tap WiFi, and scroll to “Auto-Join Hotspot.”
You’ll see three options: Never, Ask to Join, or Automatic. Experts say steer clear of Automatic and go with Never or Ask to Join instead.
Turning off WiFi and forgetting networks adds more protection
Want to go the extra mile? Turn off the Auto-Join Networks setting, too. That way, your phone won’t automatically connect to saved networks.
Also, switch off WiFi before leaving the house so it doesn’t latch onto random networks while you’re out.
And if you connect to a network once but don’t plan to use it again, just tap it and hit Forget This Network.
Restarting your phone regularly can disrupt potential attacks
The NSA also suggests restarting your phone every week. Why? Hackers sometimes use open web pages to sneak malware onto your device.
Rebooting your phone shuts down those sessions and logs you out of sensitive accounts. So yeah, turning your phone off and on isn’t just a random IT joke — it actually helps keep you safe.
And there you have it, a few quick tweaks can help keep your phone (and your info) out of trouble.
Last Updated on February 14, 2025 by Reem Haqqi
