STOLEN IPHONES BECOME HACKING TOOLS FOR CRIMINALS

Thieves now have access to tools and methods that bypass iPhone security, enabling them to access device contents and impersonate owners through their contact lists. Once unlocked, criminals send phishing messages to the victim's contacts, posing as the device owner to trick recipients into revealing banking credentials and personal information. This two-stage attack multiplies the damage beyond the initial theft. The criminal ecosystem operates through forums and marketplaces where specialized services are traded. Some vendors offer device unlocking expertise, while others provide phishing templates or buyer lists compiled from previous victims. Apple's security features have made this process more difficult than in previous years, but determined attackers continue finding workarounds. The vulnerability highlights the danger posed by physical device theft in today's interconnected digital environment. Security experts recommend enabling two-factor authentication, marking devices as lost in iCloud immediately after theft, and warning contacts about potential phishing attempts.