A new iPhone trick is making its rounds: It allows people to send messages, make calls and post Facebook updates from your phone - even when it's locked.

Pranksters are using Siri to do it. They summon the voice assistant while the lock screen is on by holding down on the Home button, before making their commands. While Siri's actions are limited in lock mode, users can still dictate text messages to any contact saved on your phone, make calls just by saying a name, or ask to "Update Facebook" with a  status.

So, just when you thought your phone was safe with your mates, it's actually kind of not. Unless you follow these simple steps to protect yourself, that is...

To block the hack, go ahead and open the Settings menu, scroll down to Siri, and switch off the option that says "Access on Lock Screen." Presto, you're covered. Doing this does mean you'll no longer be able to summon Siri when your phone is locked, but a small price for peace of mind.

From: Cosmopolitan US