We recently heard about a new device called the GrayKey Box that could be used to unlock Apple’s iPhone. The device is apparently being used by law enforcement. Apple has now released their new iOS 11.4 beta 4 and this comes with a new feature to block devices like the GrayKey box.
The new iOS 11.4 beta will disable the lightning connector on an iPhone if the device has not been unlocked for seven days. The device is apparently put into USB restricted mode, this was recently discovered by Elcomsoft.
“At this point, it is still unclear whether the USB port is blocked if the device has not been unlocked with a passcode for 7 consecutive days; if the device has not been unlocked at all (password or biometrics); or if the device has not been unlocked or connected to a trusted USB device or computer.
In our test, we were able to confirm the USB lock after the device has been left idle for 7 days. During this period, we have not tried to unlock the device with Touch ID or connect it to a paired USB device. What we do know, however, is that after the 7 days the Lightning port is only good for charging.”
So it looks like law enforcement will have at least a week to try an crack a device using devices like the GrayKey box. The problem is that it would not only be law enforcement who would be using these devices, similar devices could also be used by criminal to unlock devices and this is probably one of the reasons that Apple has introduced this extra security measure.
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