Both iPhone and Android users have been warned not to use their screen unlock codes in public—due to the rise of a simple but devastating new scam.

The Wall Street Journal identified a new iPhone scam last month which enables thieves to steal not only your phone, but your entire digital life including your bank account, email, photos and videos.

Now cybersecurity experts are warning that the same scam can be used on Android users as well.

READ NEXT: Trio pull off 'biggest ever Amazon scam' by returning pebbles instead of items

All thieves have to do is watch you type in your 4-digit screen unlock code to gain access to some of your most sensitive data.

Victims of the scam have been 'befriended' by thieves who watch them type in their four-digit PIN, then steals the phone.

One woman, Reyhan Ayas, could no longer access her Apple account after her phone was snatched in New York. Within a day, $10,000 (£8,400) had vanished from her bank account.

The 4-digit PIN used to secure the device can be used to change your Apple ID password or your Google account password, effectively locking you out of the account permanently.

• 

  Scientists hatch mad plan to build 'organoid' computers using real human brains

That means you'll lose much more than just a phone—you could lose your entire identity.

To avoid falling prey to the scam, first you should just be careful not to be too obvious when entering your phone unlock code.

iPhones and Android devices also have options to use a longer unlock code or password, instead of a pattern.

But really, you should switch to a biometric unlock such as facial recognition or a fingerprint, as these are much harder for a thief to capture. You can do this on your phone settings.

Alternatively, set up two-factor authentication on your Google or Apple account to prevent thieves from locking you out.

READ MORE:

• iPhone users can clear tons of storage space without deleting any photos using handy trick
• Mercedes unveils 'distracting' smart car with built-in Angry Birds and TikTok
• White House tells government to delete TikTok within 30 days amid China spying fears
• Gamers go wild following Elden Ring 'Shadow of the Erdtree' DLC announcement
• Elon Musk regains spot as world's richest man after losing title last year

Source: Read Full Article