Apple has added a new feature to iPhones in the iOS 18.1 update, which automatically restarts the phone if it has not been unlocked for a period of time, in order to enhance security and make hacking data stored on devices more difficult, according to a number of phone security experts.
Recently, multiple reports have emerged indicating that security agencies are surprised by the sudden automatic restart of iPhones stored with them. At first, this phenomenon was a mystery that puzzled investigators, prompting them to wonder about its cause and what follows the restart process of blocking access to devices.
According to what was reported by the 404 Media website, quoting specialists, Apple has added a feature known as “restart due to inactivity” in iOS 18.1, which was found in the system’s source code. This feature works based on the duration of inactivity of the devices, and does not appear to be related to the network or wireless connection status.
Experts confirmed that iOS 18 contains a software code that is temporarily activated when iPhones are left unused. When this timer expires, the phone automatically reboots, changing its state from “AFU” (after first unlock) to “BFU” (before first unlock). In the former case, the phone has been unlocked at least once since it was turned on, making it easier for investigators to access data, while in the latter case, it becomes much more difficult to unlock.
This change is part of the ongoing struggle between phone companies, such as Apple, that seek to protect user data, and law enforcement agencies that seek to access data stored on seized devices.
This is believed to be a positive move by Apple. While most users will not face a forensic analysis of their phones, many of them may be exposed to theft, and this feature protects their data in both cases.
On the other hand, the change did not please security agencies, who recommended that data should be collected from iPhones running iOS 18 as soon as possible before rebooting.
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