Apple, Samsung and Microsoft react to Wikileaks’ CIA dump

Julian Assange, Wikileaks founder

Several of the tech firms whose products have been allegedly compromised by the CIA have given their first reactions to the claims.

According to BBC, Wikileaks published thousands of documents said to detail the US spy agency’s hacking tools on Tuesday.

They included allegations the CIA had developed ways to listen in on smartphone and smart TV
microphones.

Apple’s statement was the most detailed, saying it had already addressed some of the
vulnerabilities.

“The technology built into today’s iPhone represents the best data security available to
consumers, and we’re constantly working to keep it that way,” it said.

“Our products and software are designed to quickly get security updates into the hands of our
customers, with nearly 80 per cent of users running the latest version of our operating system.

“While our initial analysis indicates that many of the issues leaked today were already patched
in the latest iOS, we will continue work to rapidly address any identified vulnerabilities.

“We always urge customers to download the latest iOS to make sure they have the most recent
security update.”

Samsung – whose F8000 series of televisions was reportedly compromised via a USB connection-based hack co-developed with the UK’s MI5 agency – was briefer.

“Protecting consumers’ privacy and the security of our devices is a top priority at Samsung,” it
said.