The predetermined setting of the iPhone can give hackers access to your personal information – do this instead

Experts are sounding the alarm about an iPhone setting that can make the user vulnerable to hackers.

WiFi setting called “Auto-Join” automatically connects phones and other equipment with public hot spots and networks in places such as cafes, bars and restaurants.

The feature definitely seems appropriate, as users do not have to require a WiFi network themselves – but also opens the hacker door, potentially giving access to personal information such as passwords, photos and bank accounts.

If a hacker is waiting for a hot point in one place, your phone can potentially be automatically joined and connected to their network, giving access to the cyber criminal with your data.

Hackers will often configure WiFi networks with names that appear similar to what you would assume it is legal, such as “Cafe1”, in the hope that you will be incorrectly connected to it.

Once connected, cyber criminals can use the profiling of victims online to steal identities and data from everything you write online. They can also install malware on the device, allowing them to access your data – even after disconnecting.

Leaving WiFi makes the device vulnerable from a key reinstall attack – also known as a “Krack” attack – which manipulates protected access through the encryption keys and creates a safe connection that allows data to be stolen when are at close distance.

The National Security Agency (NSA) has advised iPhone users not to connect to public WiFi in general, adding that those connected to an external network should turn off their Bluetooth if not in use.

Leaving Bluetooth can lead to a “Blueborne” attack, which is when a hacker takes control of the device without any interaction from the phone user. This can result in cyber espionage, data theft or a ransomware attack.

Turning the “Auto-Join” setting is quite easy: Open the settings on the iPhone, select WiFi and move until you see “Auto-Join Hotspot”.

There will be three options: Never ask to join or automatic. Experts warn not to choose automatically, advising users to choose or never seek to join.

For an increased level of safety, technology experts also suggest inability to qualify automatic networks, which automatically connects equipment to known networks.

To make sure your phone does not connect to external networks, be sure to turn off your WiFi before leaving home.

Moreover, if you are temporarily connecting with a network outside your home that you are not planning to use it again, you can remove it by pressing on the grid and choosing forget this network.

On the other hand, there is also an opportunity to allow your device to join that specific network once connected if you plan to use it regularly.

The NSA also advises iPhone users to reset their equipment each week to prevent hackers from being able to manipulate open URLs and execute a code that will install malware. Turning off completely switched off will reset all open websites and applications as well as exit bank accounts.