iOS 4.1 bug allows calls from locked iPhone 4s
updated 04:50 pm EDT, Mon October 25, 2010
Issue not unique to Apple devices
A vulnerability in iOS 4.1 is allowing people to make calls on a nominally locked iPhone 4, users note. Passcode-protected iPhones typically block most actions unless a person picks Emergency Call and dials a genuine emergency number, such as 911. Circumventing this on the iPhone 4 can be done by entering a non-emergency number from the Emergency screen, tapping Call, then immediately hitting the lock button. The action brings up the Phone app, where people can then access a contact list or manually dial any number.
The issue is not unique to Apple hardware. Only recently, a similar flaw was discovered with the Motorola Droid 2 and Droid X. With those devices, restricted calls can be made through a combination of Voice Actions and holding down a search button. Other Android 2.2-based phones are so far unaffected.
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FYI
If you do it on your phone you dont have to power off to get back to your lock screen to unlock it. Hold the home button to activate the voice dialing then cancel that hit home again and your back at the lock screen to put your pass code in.