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Apple’s Protective USB Restricted Mode Leaves iPhones Open to Spying

USB Restricted Mode is supposed to protect iPhones from spying through locking the device. However, research company ElcomSoft has discovered an exploit in the feature.

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One of the core new additions announced for iOS this year is USB Restricted Mode. This ability prevents attacks on iPads and iPhones. However, we wrote last month how the mode may actually not deliver on its promise. Now that Apple has officially launched the feature, security firm ElcomSoft has shown how it can be exploited.

USB Restricted mode rejects USB connections through the Lightning port if the has not been unlocked in the last hour. At its core, this means hackers, data thieves, authorities cannot unlock a device by connecting it to a PC.

While debuted as a key feature on iOS 12, the feature is also available on iOS 11.4.1.

The main ability of Restricted mode to protect people from law enforcement and thieves. Apple insists it is not trying to work against law enforcement. Although, it seems a flaw in USB Restricted Mode means the feature may not work at all.

ElcomSoft details a workaround that allows anyone to access the device. All that is needed is any accessory that connects to the Lightning connector. The researchers tested with an official Apple USB 3 Camera Adapter that costs $39.

“What we discovered is that iOS will reset the USB Restrictive Mode countdown timer even if one connects the iPhone to an untrusted USB accessory, one that has never been paired to the iPhone before (well, in fact the accessories do not require pairing at all). In other words, once the police officer seizes an iPhone, he or she would need to immediately connect that iPhone to a compatible USB accessory to prevent USB Restricted Mode lock after one hour.”

Possible Solution

There are some exceptions in terms of accessories that trigger the exploit. ElcomSoft offers the Apple Lightning 3.5mm adapter as one accessory that does not work.

As I mentioned in the previous report, this is a slightly embarrassing situation for Apple. However, ElcomSoft points out the situation can be recovered as Apple can update iOS to “remember which devices were connected to the iPhone, and only allow those accessories to establish connectivity without requiring an unlock.”

SourceElcomSoft
Luke Jones
Luke Jones
Luke has been writing about all things tech for more than five years. He is following Microsoft closely to bring you the latest news about Windows, Office, Azure, Skype, HoloLens and all the rest of their products.

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