Apple vs. FBI and the San Bernardino iPhone Conflict

Background and Conflict

   In the aftermath of the San Bernardino attack, the FBI had in their possession an iPhone belonging to the perpetrator. They were initially unable to unlock the phone and gain access to the data stored on it as it was protected by encryption and passcode with an automatic data wipe if the user fails to correctly enter the code a certain number of times. The FBI approached Apple, asking that a backdoor be created to breach the security of the iPhone and allow them access to data that they believed could fill in key gaps in their timeline of events during the attack. Apple then declined, and in their official statement said that they have cooperated with authorities and valid search warrants, have given data in their possession to the FBI for investigation, and have lent Apple engineers to assist the bureau in determining their options through which they can solve their issues with the technology. They noted that although they have complied up to that point in time, the FBI had requested they make a version of iOS that would breach the security of the iPhone and install it on the device in question -- something they were unwilling to do.

   While this may seem a reasonable request on the FBI's part, Apple points out that the implications of the creation of this sort of backdoor are potentially dire. Citing their official statement, CEO Tim Cook states that if this version is placed into the wrong hands, it could fundamentally compromise security on all iPhones. Law enforcement insisted that it was a "one-off" deal, and that this version of iOS would solely be used for this case. While it would be nice if we could believe that this could be kept secure in our governments hands, many have doubts about the intentions of our system, especially after Snowden. By creating this version, Apple could give the government and possibly black-hat hackers the opportunity to compromise our already dwindling level of privacy and security.

Outcomes

 Though this story is relatively old news now, it holds key ideas about cybersecurity and the grey area that exists between privacy and defense. This situation made me question the values I put on my privacy and how much of that I would be willing to give up for the safety of my country. Regardless, it doesn't seem that I have much of a say in this, as access was gained to the data on the phone without Apple's assistance. This leads us to question whether the FBI and their agents themselves gained access, or whether an outside "gray-hat" hacker or hacker group was hired to break in. Either way, the fact that access was gained suggests an existing loophole in the iOS - one that could compromise the privacy of any iPhone user.



Sources:
Content: http://www.apple.com/customer-letter/,
http://www.cnbc.com/2016/03/29/apple-vs-fbi-all-you-need-to-know.html,
http://www.theverge.com/2016/3/28/11317396/apple-fbi-encryption-vacate-iphone-order-san-bernardino

Graphics: http://tinyurl.com/jrqxhqo