A new bug has emerged that allows malicious users to crash someone’s iPhone and even reboot it unexpectedly. Tech official Mikal Watts reported that when a certain text string is received the receiver’s messaging app will continuously crash. If the message is received while the receiver is on the lock screen the receiver’s phone will reboot.
This isn’t the first time that iOS has faced this exact same problem. In the past other strings have been used to cause the same headaches. Apple has been very prompt in fixing the bugs, but waiting for a software update while someone is attacking your phone is a little frustrating to say the least.
Fortunately, the text string in question can only be sent from one iPhone to another. If you have an Android phone and want to mess with your Apple loving friends then you’re out of luck.
The person who sent you the original message can simply send you another message to fix what they’ve done. You can also send yourself a text from Siri or from your Mac.