Apple’s latest iOS 18.1 update brings a new security feature aimed at protecting user data in the event an iPhone is lost or stolen. The new Inactivity Reboot feature automatically restarts an iPhone after 72 hours of inactivity, making it harder for unauthorized users to access personal information. Recent reports, supported by testing by security researchers, show how this feature adds an extra layer of protection, especially in situations where iPhones are seized for forensic investigations.

How the “Idle Restart” feature works

The Idle Reboot feature comes into play when an iPhone remains unlocked and unused for 72 hours. After this period, the phone will automatically reboot and enter a state called “Before First Unlock” (BFU). In this state, the encryption keys that protect your data are safely stored in a special area of ​​the phone’s chip, called the Secure Enclave. This secure subsystem makes it much more difficult for anyone to break into the device or access sensitive information, even if there is physical access.

See the latest iOS idle reboot in action!

iOS 18 comes with improved anti-theft measures. Three days without unlocking, the iPhone will restart, preventing thieves from accessing your data. (1/4) pic.twitter.com/H24Tfo1cSr
– Jiska (@naehrdine) November 13, 2024

What makes BFU state so crucial is that it locks data until the device is unlocked for the first time. In contrast, once an iPhone is unlocked (known as the After First Unlock or AFU state), biometrics such as Face ID or Touch ID can be used, making it easier to interact with the device but less secure if someone else tries to access it. he. The BFU State constitutes a reinforced barrier against unauthorized access.

Safety Considerations and Expert Advice

Although the Inactivity Reboot feature adds an extra layer of security, some experts remain cautious about its effectiveness in all situations. Security researcher Jiska Classen, who tested the feature, pointed out that three days may still be enough for law enforcement or advanced hackers to access data, especially when using specialized tools. However, the restart mechanism is likely to deter less experienced attackers, particularly those relying on outdated or less sophisticated methods that would not be able to bypass BFU security.

Classen shared a demo of the feature on an iPhone 14 Pro running iOS 18.1, showing how the phone automatically restarted after 72 hours of inactivity. This reboot effectively locks the device and prevents unauthorized access, even in cases where the phone has been seized or left unattended for a few days.

Additional Features to Strengthen iPhone Security

Along with the idle reboot, Apple continues to build on its security framework with additional features. One of these features, Stolen Data Protection, was introduced in iOS 17.3 and requires biometric authentication (Face ID or Touch ID) before changing key device settings. This additional layer of protection helps ensure that stolen devices cannot be easily reconfigured.

Although the Stolen Data Protection feature is disabled by default to avoid complicating the user experience, Apple plans to encourage users to enable it when setting up their devices or after a factory reset in the next iOS 18.2 update. This will give users more control over how their data is protected.

The Inactivity Reboot feature is a significant advancement in iPhone security, providing additional peace of mind to users who are concerned about the security of their data if their device is lost or stolen. While it may not be foolproof, it is an important addition that makes it much more difficult for opportunistic thieves to gain access to sensitive information. With other features like stolen data protection and continuous updates, Apple continues to show its commitment to keeping user data safe.

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