Apple Denies the Existence of an iOS Backdoor Access

[RaduTyrsina]

Recently, many have started questioning the security of iPhones and iPads after iOS security hacker Jonathan Zdziarski recently claimed Apple had purposefully made backdoor access points for a variety of system and user data on iOS devices, that would usually be locked and encrypted via the passcode.

Zdziraski said at the time that anyone with access to this pairing data can then locate the specific iOS device on a Wi-Fi network. He says that certain tools from inside the operating system can give automatic access to data, allowing copying and relay of all data stored on iOS device.

Just as it was expected, Apple has denied the allegation, reiterating its previous statement:

"Apple has never worked with any government agency from any country to create a backdoor in any of our products or services".

Apple also referred to the information exposed in the presentation, saying that it is used for diagnostics purposes by “IT departments, developers and Apple” for debugging. Apple representatives said that this data is never transferred without explicit consent.

Source: 9to5Mac

 

[Ser Aphim]

Well that's not enough to prove that they don't have back door access. Why would Apple even admit that they have allegiance to any government agency? Saying that is business suicide.

 

[twerppoet]

The pairing data mentioned is you pairing your device to iTunes on the computer. It's not a 'back door' it is part of the syncing dialog between the computer and the iPad. In order to get this paring data a hacker needs to either get access to your computer, trick you into paring your device with another computer or dock, or guess the pairing codes (harder to do than guess your passcode/lock.

The full article by Zdziraski explains this. He also praises Apple for it's security. He just wants them to do more; a predictable attitude for any security expert. Things can always be more secure.

As for why would Apple admit this, well why would they create such back doors in the first place? There is no upside for Apple; giving government a back door to their products would be all risk with no benefits.

For conspiracy theorists this will make no difference. The inability of Apple to prove that they don't have a secret deal with the government is all the proof needed that such a deal exists. Being sued by the Justice Department and targeted as the poster child for 'legal' international tax practices would just be more proof. You know, a smoke screen to hide Apple's cozy ties with secretive government programs.