We previously heard a rumor that Apple plans to release a software update that would block devices like the GrayKey Box. This device is used by law enforcement to unlock iPhones that have a passcode.
Apple has now confirmed that a future software update will block these type of devices. The software update will basically disable the charging port for data on the device after a specific amount of time.
After the device has been locked for an hour, data will be disabled on the port, the only way to unblock the data on the port will be to used the passcode to unlock the device. The device will still charge, but this will block devices like the GrayKey Box and other unlocking devices.
Law enforcement are less than pleased with this change as they have spent money buying these devices. Unfortunately these sorts of devices could be used by criminals to gain access to peoples data, so you can see why Apple wants to block them.
Apple spokesperson Fred Sainz said that We have the greatest respect for law enforcement, and we don’t design our security improvements to frustrate their efforts to do their jobs,”.
As yet there are no details on when this software update will be released, as soon as we get some more details, we will let you guys know.
Source NYT
Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPad, Apple iPhone