Latest iOS security feature

USB Restricted Mode locks down your Lightning ports

Much has been made of recent attempts to bypass iOS security.

Apple has attempted to thwart these efforts with a new feature in iOS 11.4.1.

The feature is called USB Restricted Mode and it disables USB accessories’ access to the Lightning port if your device hasn’t been unlocked for several days. In the imminent iOS 12 update, that’ll be reduced to an hour.

That should block access for devices like the GrayKey, which has made the news for its apparent ability to hack iOS security measures and unlock an iPhone or iPad that’s been plugged into the device.

In iOS 12, GrayKey users will need to enter the correct passcode first – which defeats the whole point of using the tool. iOS 12’s USB Restricted Mode will safeguard your device if not unlocked in the last hour.