Apple ratchets up App Store security
Apple battens down the security hatches by requiring users to create security questions and identify a backup e-mail address.
iOS and iTunes users have been bumping into new and stricter security measures as they use their accounts.
The new security demands, apparently implemented yesterday, have been asking users to choose three security questions and answers that are then required to download a new app from the App Store. A backup e-mail address is also being required, presumably in case a user's primary address and associated Apple ID become compromised.
In threads on the Apple Support forums, a number of users confused by the new security steps have sounded off because there was no official word from Apple prior to the new security requests.
As described by the Next Web, a "Security Info Required" popup window explains that creating the backup or "rescue" e-mail address gives Apple a way to contact you if any account questions arise.
With the ever-growing popularity of the iPhone and iPad, more Apple users have been the victims of phishing attacks aimed at taking over their accounts, TNW noted. Some compromised accounts were used to purchase expensive apps.
The additional security is aimed at accounts that may have triggered a flag for one reason or another. I tried logging in and out of my iPhone and iTunes accounts, and no additional security requests popped up.
An Apple representative confirmed to CNET that the company has been rolling out the extra measures to shore up security.
Updated 11:00 a.m. PT with response from Apple.