When buying or receiving a used iPhone, what security precautions should I take?
I intend to immediately wipe the phone by using iTunes to install a fresh iOS, as a clean install.
➥ What else should I do to address security concerns?
➥ If this phone had been through a jailbreaking, is there a way for me to tell? Is there any risk to using a previous jailbroken iPhone after doing a wipe and install of an all-new iOS?
My Question here is similar to: Steps after buying a used iPhone. But that Question focused on practical issues. My Question here has a focus on security.
The only to-do item I know is to check for the Activation Lock feature being enabled. Apple describes how to do this. Any other to-do items?
Best Answer
That should be the only major step required. Do a clean iOS install (or factory reset the device). Make sure to install the latest public version of iOS supported by your model of iPhone.
Installing the latest public iOS release should take care of the security concerns whatsoever. You can further ensure if no 3rd party/unauthorized part replacements have been made. The iOS should be able to detect if any crucial components such as Home button or battery has been replaced by unauthorized means.
No if the device has been reset to remove the Jailbreak.
None if you reinstall iOS which effectively removes the jailbreak.