Cybersecurity is more important than ever, especially with the growing market of AI assistants.

Following the news about DeepSeek AI stealing iPhone users’ data , the US National Security Agency (NSA) is now warning iPhone users to disable some features that could expose them to potential attacks.

Kaspersky shares that one of the biggest risks comes from a feature called ‘Auto-Join,’ which is enabled by default. This setting allows your iPhone to automatically search for and connect to public Wi-Fi networks when you’re not at home.

The problem is that public Wi-Fi hotspots can be a hacker’s playground. Cybercriminals can set up fake networks to trick devices into connecting, allowing them to intercept personal data, track your online activity, or even install malware. That’s why the NSA strongly recommends disabling this feature.

To turn it off, follow these steps:

  1. Go to your device’s Settings > ‘Wi-Fi’.
  2. Tap ‘Ask to Join Networks’ and select ‘Off’ or ‘Ask’.
  3. Then go back to ‘Wi-Fi’, tap ‘Auto-Join Networks’, and choose ‘Never’ or ‘Ask to Join’.
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Foundry

Another potential risk comes from Bluetooth which, while being extremely convenient, can also be exploited by hackers using an attack method called BlueBorne.

This method can allow cybercriminals to gain access to your device, steal data, or even send malware without you connecting to anything.

If you’re within range of an attacker, they could compromise your phone without you realising. That’s why the NSA advises switching Bluetooth off when you don’t need it.

To turn off Bluetooth:

  1. Open your device’s Settings.
  2. Tap ‘Bluetooth’.
  3. Toggle it ‘Off’ when not in use.
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Foundry

While Apple’s security is among the best, no system is completely foolproof. Small changes, like turning off ‘Auto-Join’ and disabling Bluetooth when not in use, can go a long way in protecting your personal data.

For more useful tips, read our article on how to stay safe online .

Author: Artur Tomala, Mobile Writer, Tech Advisor

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Artur is a Mobile Writer at Tech Advisor, where he covers a range of smartphone, tablet and smartwatch-related topics. He has been working in the tech industry since 2021, including time spent leading a team focused on mobile news, reviews and product rankings. As an ambassador for the productivity app Notion, he runs training workshops and creates advanced templates to help people stay organised and productive.

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