iOS 5 might be getting its first patch rushed out after a major security oversight has been discovered relating to its use on the iPad 2.

It turns out that just by attaching a Smart Cover to an iPad 2 you can bypass the passcode protection screen and unlock the device. It doesn’t give you full access to iOS, but you can view and use any apps that were left open when it was locked, e.g. the Safari web browser.

If you have an iPad 2 and a Smart Cover to hand it’s easy to see this security flaw in action. Just lock your iPad 2, then hold down the power button to bring up the screen that allows you to swipe to turn off the device. Instead of doing that, attach the Smart Cover, open it, then tap Cancel. Magically you will have access to the iPad 2 interface again.

If this causes you concern, it is possible to stop the passcode being bypassed until Apple issues a fix by disabling Smart Cover unlocking in settings. As to when it will be fixed, I doubt Apple will wait long to roll out a patch as it is a bit of an embarrassing oversight on their part.

This isn’t the first security issue Apple has experienced since rolling out iOS 5. On the brand newiPhone 4S it has been discovered you can use Siri when a device is locked. Even if a passcode is required, Siri doesn’t care and allows you to carry out functions such as sending email and text messages.

Read more at 9to5Mac