How Apples New iOS Could Give You Better Data Security

How Apple's New iOS Could Give You Better Data Security

The iOS 11 has been in beta testing for a few weeks now and many users are reporting a new discovered security feature that could boost a user's data security and make it harder for police to find information.

  • Sep 12, 2017

Techies, consumers and iPhone haters alike will all be on the edges of their seats today as Apple makes it's newest set of announcements concerning iOS 11, the iPhone 8 and many more innovations.

The iOS 11 has been in beta testing for a few weeks now and many users are reporting a new discovered security feature that could boost a user's data security and make it harder for police to find information.

Apple has added a requirement that forces iPhone users to use both a fingerprint and their device passcode to establish a "trusting" relationship with computers on which they want to backup their devices. The feature, which was discovered by security firm Elcosoft, means there is an additional step for users to access a backup - and an additional step for law enforcement to do the same.

Law enforcement has been long frustration by their inability to access the data on suspects' phones due to the high amount of security already protecting the device. For example, a user can enable a passcode or fingerprint scan to access the phone's information. If the phone has been turned off for some time, it could require both.

Apple's decision to add the passcode requirement to backups might seem like a small security upgrade for users to ensure their data is protected, but it might also prove to be an additional barrier between evidence in a case for police as iPhone data without a fingerprint and passcode will remain encrypted.

It's unclear exactly why Apple made the change and how law enforcement might respond to it. However,  reports say that Apple is planning to drop the fingerprint sensor in a device it could launch this year called the iPhone X, the company might have felt it had no other option but to add passcode support to backups. 

Featured

  • Brivo, Eagle Eye Networks Merge

    Dean Drako, Chairman of Brivo, the leading global provider of cloud-native access control and smart space technologies, and Founder of Eagle Eye Networks, the global leader in cloud AI video surveillance, today announced the two companies will merge, creating the world’s largest AI cloud-native physical security company. The merged company will operate under the Brivo name and deliver a truly unified cloud-native security platform. Read Now

  • Security Industry Association Announces the 2026 Security Megatrends

    The Security Industry Association (SIA) has identified and forecasted the 2026 Security Megatrends, which form the basis of SIA’s signature annual Security Megatrends report defining the top 10 factors influencing both near- and long-term change in the global security industry. Read Now

  • The Future of Access Control: Cloud-Based Solutions for Safer Workplaces

    Access controls have revolutionized the way we protect our people, assets and operations. Gone are the days of cumbersome keychains and the security liabilities they introduced, but it’s a mistake to think that their evolution has reached its peak. Read Now

  • A Look at AI

    Large language models (LLMs) have taken the world by storm. Within months of OpenAI launching its AI chatbot, ChatGPT, it amassed more than 100 million users, making it the fastest-growing consumer application in history. Read Now

  • First, Do No Harm: Responsibly Applying Artificial Intelligence

    It was 2022 when early LLMs (Large Language Models) brought the term “AI” into mainstream public consciousness and since then, we’ve seen security corporations and integrators attempt to develop their solutions and sales pitches around the biggest tech boom of the 21st century. However, not all “artificial intelligence” is equally suitable for security applications, and it’s essential for end users to remain vigilant in understanding how their solutions are utilizing AI. Read Now

Most   Popular

New Products

  • PE80 Series

    PE80 Series by SARGENT / ED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin

    ASSA ABLOY, a global leader in access solutions, has announced the launch of two next generation exit devices from long-standing leaders in the premium exit device market: the PE80 Series by SARGENT and the PED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin. These new exit devices boast industry-first features that are specifically designed to provide enhanced safety, security and convenience, setting new standards for exit solutions. The SARGENT PE80 and Corbin Russwin PED4000/PED5000 Series exit devices are engineered to meet the ever-evolving needs of modern buildings. Featuring the high strength, security and durability that ASSA ABLOY is known for, the new exit devices deliver several innovative, industry-first features in addition to elegant design finishes for every opening.

  • HD2055 Modular Barricade

    Delta Scientific’s electric HD2055 modular shallow foundation barricade is tested to ASTM M50/P1 with negative penetration from the vehicle upon impact. With a shallow foundation of only 24 inches, the HD2055 can be installed without worrying about buried power lines and other below grade obstructions. The modular make-up of the barrier also allows you to cover wider roadways by adding additional modules to the system. The HD2055 boasts an Emergency Fast Operation of 1.5 seconds giving the guard ample time to deploy under a high threat situation.

  • EasyGate SPT and SPD

    EasyGate SPT SPD

    Security solutions do not have to be ordinary, let alone unattractive. Having renewed their best-selling speed gates, Cominfo has once again demonstrated their Art of Security philosophy in practice — and confirmed their position as an industry-leading manufacturers of premium speed gates and turnstiles.