This weekend, it was reported by several news sources that Apple has experienced a major security breach within its operations.
The breach operates by hackers connecting to shared networks and acting as a sort of middleman between the user and the sites that they are interacting with (i.e. online banking, shopping, Facebook, etc.).
Apple has currently issued an update that will provide security for those using iPads and iPhones but currently has nothing for those using Apple computers and laptops.
This security breach comes in the face of several other breaches disclosed by big name retailers – Target, Neiman Marcus and Michaels Arts and Crafts.
In this day and age, the world has become a digital place. Unfortunately, that means that people with computers who wish to do harm can find more avenues to do so.
At The Xavierite, we try to serve as eyes and ears for the St. Xavier University community.
We wanted to make sure that you have all been made aware of this situation and are prepared to remedy it as such.
If you are someone who uses Apple products frequently to do things such as online banking or online purchasing perhaps it would be prudent if you contacted your bank to see if your personal information in regards to your credit cards and banking statements have been compromised and what steps should be taken to defend your personal funds.
According to Gregory Wallace’s article, “Security experts say Apple has patched a hole that could have exposed sensitive information to hackers†printed by CNN Money, if you operate on a secured network then you should be okay and that these hacks are largely happening on shared networks (i.e. coffee shops, airplanes, etc.).
One recommended way to prevent being hacked is to use an Internet provider other than Mac’s Safari.
If you are a Mac user, be sure to find the updates for your devices – iPads, iPod Touches, iPhones – and be sure that you are on a secure network if you are going to use an Apple laptop or desktop computer until a patch for these devices are available.
These are the woes of the digital world. True, everything is more convenient and can be more easily reached with the click of the mouse.
But definite security is being sacrificed in a world where technology has made constant harm a definite possibility.
We must always try to remain vigilant when navigating the world-wide-web and tread cautiously when providing information online.
Even in practical settings and locations we must now be more careful as to when we are going to use things such as our credit and debit cards.
It is a sad state of affairs that we are in. But, we must go forward more cautious and more aware than we were before.
In the coming days and months, we ask you to stay aware and stay safe.
Above all else, try to protect your name and identity in life.
If you don’t have that, what else do you have?
We are infants in this digital age and it seems we are all learning the hard way how to be safe in this digital world. But we will navigate to clearer, more definitive waters. That’s progression.
Letter to the Editor Policy
Here are The Xavierite we try to represent the thoughts and opinions of the student body and St. Xavier community within our Viewpoints section. If you feel that there is a story that should have been covered and was not or if you have criticisms or concerns about our coverage, the best way to voice your opinion directly is through a Letter to the Editor. Please send an email with “Letter to the Editor†in the subject line to thexavierite@yahoo.com.
If you are a student be sure to include your name and major in the email. If you are a member of the staff or faculty be sure to provide your name and title/position.
We are always searching for feedback. All thoughts and opinions are greatly appreciated.
Letters may be edited for content if they contain profanity, libel or do not otherwise correspond with ethical practices in journalism.
Letters may also be printed at the editor’s discretion.
The Xavierite Staff