Find out how you can secure your iPhone! It's not easy, but it's worth it!
Many users dream of having a brand new iPhone to call their own, and if it’s free, even better. Apple can make that dream come true, but with one condition. The company has announced a program that will offer specially designed iPhone 14 Pros to security researchers, with the goal of discovering and fixing potential vulnerabilities in iOS.
The challenge is not open to just anyone, as Apple has strict eligibility criteria that require a proven track record in vulnerability research. Those who meet the requirements will receive a unique iPhone that will provide access to the code and the ability to modify the core operating system to perform system investigations.
Learn more about this Apple program and how to apply!
Apple Program
Just thinking you know how to hack isn't enough for this company's program. To participate, candidates need to have real experience identifying and fixing operating system vulnerabilities, which is a concern for Apple.
Professionals who meet the requirements will receive a iPhone 14 the only one that will give them access to the code and the ability to change the core of the operating system to perform security investigations.
The iPhone will remain property from Apple and its use will be restricted to the research facilities only. Those selected must follow protocols and use the device only for controlled safety testing, in addition to promptly reporting any problems that are found.
The incentive for researchers is quite significant, as the company offers rewards ranging from US$$5,000 to US$$1,000,000, depending on the type and severity of the vulnerability they discover.
Creation
This program was created by the company in 2019 and since its launch has resulted in the discovery of 130 critical severity vulnerabilities, with 37 common vulnerability and exposure identifiers issued in the last six months alone.
The company said reports received as part of the program helped implement new mitigations on six systems, including in areas such as the kernel and kernel extensions and XPC services.
Registrations
Every year, Apple opens vacancies for the program, with a limited number of researchers applying to the program and being selected based on their track record, including on other platforms. This year, interested parties will be able to apply until October 31st.
The company said it will notify selected participants by the end of the year. The company is also providing the devices to selected academics to use as teaching tools in security research classes. Applications can be made through the company’s website, where interested parties will find all the information and guidelines.
To be eligible, the interested party must:
– Have a proven track record of success in locating security issues on Apple platforms or other modern systems and platforms;
– Be based in an eligible country or region;
– Be of legal age in the jurisdiction in which you reside;
– Not be an employee of the company currently or in the last year.
To register as a company, university, or other organization, the applicant must be authorized to act on behalf of the organization. Additional users must be approved by the company in advance and accept the program terms individually.
