A new iOS update is expected to be released in the coming days. Surprisingly, the new update comes with a major security feature and the lightning port will be disabled after 7 days. Let’s have a closer look at the security measure and the reasons behind the update.
USB Restricted Mode in iOS 11.4
Apple has introduced a term “USB Restricted Mode” in the new update iOS 11.4 Beta, but this feature appeared first in the iOS 11.3 Beta. In order to enhance the security features for iOS devices that are locked and to communicate with USB accessories, the device needs to be connected with the help of a lightning connector while it is unlocked. But, the functionality of USB Restricted Mode is very much simple. When any iOS device is upgraded to the latest version, it will disable USB connection via Lightning port after 7 days once it has been unlocked.
But, it’s not clear whether the USB port gets blocked if the iOS device is not unlocked using password for a week or if the device is not connected to a genuine computer USB or a PC. When it was tested, it was confirmed that the USB locks even if the device remains idle for 7 days and the lightning port can only be used as a source for charging.
Forensic Consequences of USB Restricted Mode
iPhone that runs on version 11.3 has to be unlocked once in a week in order to achieve Restricted USB Mode. If you fail to unlock the iPhone, the Lightning port will reduce itself only to charge mode. Hence, the device will no longer be able to establish a data connection and would also fail to prompt “Trust this computer?” until the user unlocks the device that has to be updated.
What Happens After 7 Days?
Information such as date and time of the device, which was unlocked, will be recorded by the iOS. Based on this information, the Lightning port will disable after 7 days. Soon after this, the device will no longer be able to pair with any existing lockdown record, USB accessory or computer without unlocking it using passcode.
