What Does Jailbreaking an iPhone Do, and Is It Safe?

Jailbreaking is the act of removing all manufacturer-imposed software restrictions to gain unrestricted access to your iPhone. This process allows users to access unauthorized third-party app stores, remove bloatware, and customize their iPhones.

Although the prospect of gaining full access to your iPhone can sound appealing, jailbreaking can present multiple security risks and dangers. Here we will cover the serious downsides to jailbreaking as well as what you can do with uncontrolled access to your device. Plus, learn tips for keeping your iPhone secure and how to protect yourself with the best antivirus software for iOS.

What does jailbreaking an iPhone do?

While jailbreaking can come with various potential security risks, people with jailbroken iOS devices can explore the full capabilities of their iPhones. Below are a few benefits you may experience with a jailbroken iPhone:

• Access third-party app stores: You can install unauthorized but powerful applications on independent app stores like Cydia.
• Customize your device: After jailbreaking your iOS device, you can install tools that allow you to customize your iPhone more creatively.
• Implement system-wide tweaks: Root access allows you to make various system tweaks, such as adding features to the control panel or unlocking hidden functionalities.
• Improve iPhone gameplay: Jailbreaking allows you to add paid credits to games, install various indie-developed games, and more. However, jailbreaking won’t affect online gameplay.
• Better anti-theft features: Jailbreaking your device gives you access to anti-theft alternatives like No2Theft, which have better features to help you find your device.

Jailbreaking explained

Jailbreaking is an iPhone-specific term — which Android users call “rooting” — that refers to accessing your device’s root and media partition to change permissions. A comparison to this process is using your Windows computer in administrator mode to override system restrictions.

There are pros and cons to jailbreaking. iPhone users can enjoy better customization and powerful third-party applications. However, jailbreaking can also pose various security risks and impact performance.

Tethered vs. untethered jailbreaking

There are two main ways users can jailbreak their devices:

• A tethered jailbreak is considered temporary, as it can only keep the device jailbroken for a single boot. If the iOS device runs out of battery or restarts, it will exist in Recovery Mode, and the user will have to connect their device to a computer and boot it with the help of a jailbreak tool.
• An untethered jailbreak requires the user to jailbreak the device only once. Untethered jailbreaks are rare, and a reliable exploit hasn’t existed for a while. Users will still need to connect their devices to a computer and use a tool for the initial jailbreak.

Is jailbreaking an iPhone safe?

The process of jailbreaking is safe when done correctly, but jailbreaking your Apple device can cause numerous issues, such as:

Void warranty

When you jailbreak your iPhone, your warranty becomes void immediately. Apple will not repair or replace your phone under its warranty terms.

Malware from third-party apps

Since many apps aren’t vetted or authorized by a credible source, they may contain malware or other viruses that can infect your device or access your data. It’s also the perfect opportunity for attackers to hack your iPhone.

App and system crashing

When you install unauthorized applications, poor or malicious code can often cause crashes. Tethered jailbroken devices must then reconnect to a computer to regain access.

Weaker battery life

Downloading unoptimized and poorly coded unauthorized apps can clutter background processes. Additionally, visual customizations can greatly impact battery life.

Unable to receive updates

Most jailbreaking tools disable system updates, as updates to a jailbroken device can cause problems with system settings and data.

iPhone bricking

If you perform the jailbreaking process incorrectly, your iPhone can brick, rendering it nonresponsive. The user will have to perform a recovery to regain access.

Data corruption and loss

A jailbroken device can give attackers root access, allowing them to see all the data on your device. This can also contribute to significant data breaches, implicating you in larger security issues.

How to reverse a jailbreak and restore an iPhone

You'll have to reset your device to reverse the jailbreak and restore factory settings. Before you do, it’s important to back up your phone in case anything goes wrong.

Here’s one simple way you can restore your iPhone:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Enter the General tab.
3. Scroll down to Transfer or Reset iPhone
4. Select Erase All Content and Settings to return to factory settings.
5. Enjoy your clean and restored iPhone.

10 tips for keeping your iPhone secure

Your iPhone contains much of your digital life, including personal information and sensitive data. Following best practices can help safeguard your security and digital privacy.

Here are some tips for keeping your device secure:

1. Set up two-factor authentication on apps.
2. Disable biometrics like Face ID or Touch ID (opt for a strong passcode instead).
3. Monitor app permissions.
4. Use “Sign In With Apple” to hide your email from websites.
5. Disable ad tracking: Settings > Privacy & Security > Tracking and toggle OFF “Allow Apps to Request to Track.”
6. Consider disabling Siri or configuring its settings.
7. Delete messages: Settings > Apps > Messages > Keep Messages > 30 Days to auto-delete messages.
8. Enable "Find My iPhone" in case you lose your device.
9. Use a private search engine like DuckDuckGo for your default browser.
10. Use a reputable antivirus for your iPhone to catch malware, trackers, and adware.

The best antivirus protection for iPhones

Of the best antivirus software for iPhones, Norton 360 ranks as one of our top-rated options. A subscription to Norton Mobile Security starts at $19.99/yr (first year only). But if you want Norton’s complete protection across devices, the Norton 360 base plan offers antivirus and network security, while higher tiers include a virtual private network (VPN) and protection for up to five devices.

The Norton app’s interface is easy to navigate, making antivirus protection accessible for all. What makes Norton 360 an ideal antivirus for iOS is that it shows you exactly how it’s protecting your device from threats, from monitoring your network to providing web protection.

FAQs

Bottom line

Jailbreaking offers appealing aspects such as customizing aesthetics, accessing powerful third-party applications, and tweaking settings to your preferences. However, it’s also important to exercise caution and follow sound security practices, such as using the best antivirus software available. And remember, Apple will void your device’s warranty if you decide to pull a Steve McQueen.