Mobile device users beware: if you jailbreak a device, some security features will be disabled increasing the potential for security breaches. For the uninitiated, jail-breaking removes hardware restrictions and other protections in mobile device operating systems. It opens access to the device’s inner workings – hidden features and functions, advanced settings – and allows installation of third party software not vetted by company app stores. Although risks exist for all devices, jail-breaking them opens the door to increased risk of security breaches such as the installation of malware and spyware that can steal personal information. It may also may void warranties, cause device malfunctions and, done incorrectly, can “brick” your device (a very bad thing).
To preserve the security features of your devices, we urge readers not to jail-break those devices and to keep your device operating system up to date.
Check out our series, Privacy Perils, to learn what steps you can take to guard your personal and company data. For more information about this topic and other cyber security concerns, please contact a member of our Privacy & Data Security team.