Apple’s Newest iPhone Update Prevents Law Enforcement from Accessing Devices


Apple has subtly improved iPhone security, and it seems that few observed—until law enforcement found themselves unable to access devices they were attempting to investigate.

Recently, **404 Media** [reported](https://www.404media.co/police-freak-out-at-iphones-mysteriously-rebooting-themselves-locking-cops-out/) on a new complication that has been creating trouble for law enforcement officials. iPhones being kept for forensic analysis were “mysteriously” restarting, complicating efforts for authorities to retrieve evidence from these gadgets.

Now, a researcher from the Hasso Plattner Institute, Dr.-Ing. Jiska Classen, [appears](https://www.404media.co/apple-quietly-introduced-iphone-reboot-code-which-is-locking-out-cops/) to have [solved](https://x.com/naehrdine/status/1854896392797360484) this conundrum. Apple subtly incorporated a new functionality in iOS 18.1 that triggers an automatic reboot of an iPhone if it remains locked for a specific duration.

### **Inactivity Reboot: Strengthening iPhone Security**

This functionality, referred to as “inactivity reboot,” may be creating difficulties for law enforcement, but it represents a victory for the majority of users regarding security.

The inactivity reboot mechanism effectively implements a timer that commences after a user unlocks their iPhone. If the device stays locked and inactive for four continuous days, the iPhone will restart on its own. This reboot transitions the device into a “Before First Unlock” condition, which greatly hinders access for third parties, including hackers and law enforcement, who might attempt to use forensic methods to bypass the device’s security.

A cryptographer informed **404 Media** that the main intention of this feature is to dissuade thieves from stealing iPhones, cracking them, and either reselling the devices or misusing personal information for harmful reasons. Nonetheless, law enforcement officials are also feeling the effects of this modification and are now exchanging tips within their networks on how to tackle the situation.

Even with the difficulties it may create for some, this update is a beneficial advancement in Apple’s persistent mission to improve the security and privacy of its clientele.