BSI officially declares iPhones and iPads as particularly safe for the first time

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Unusual recommendation: BSI officially declares iPhones and iPads as particularly safe for the first time

When it comes to computer and smartphone security, the BSI is the highest authority in Germany. With regard to Apple’s devices, the authority made a clear judgment yesterday.

Trojans, insecure connections or security gaps: When it comes to dangers in the digital world, the Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) regularly warns of insecure devices, services or programs. And also gives tips for dealing with passwords. With regard to Apple’s iPhone and iPad, the authority now had unusual praise to announce.

While other devices and operating systems require additional protective measures, Apple’s mobile devices can already be rated as secure in the commercially available version, the agency said in a press release yesterday. And also for sensitive content. “The test confirms the effectiveness of the embedded security functions,” praises the BSI. “[U]nd comes to the conclusion that the applications for e-mail, calendar and contacts integrated into commercially available iPhones and iPads represent an addition to the existing portfolio of secure mobile solutions, even when processing classified information in the “For official use only” category.”

Authorities are allowed to use iPhones

In plain language, this means that authorities may also give iPhones and iPads to employees who work with materials that are not intended for the public. And that without having to use additional security programs or specially protected programs. The default apps are adequately protected.

This cannot be taken for granted, emphasizes BSI President Arne Schönbohm. “The release of commercially available products for the processing of information with special protection requirements is a novelty,” he emphasizes. The release is an important milestone. Instead of expensive special programs, you can now also hand out off-the-shelf goods to the authorities. From the decision “in the future, tailor-made mobile solutions for secure digitization can be derived quickly and cost-effectively”.

Victory for Apple

For the iPhone group, this is the best advertising he could wish for. For years, Apple has relied on security and privacy to enhance its products. The fact that the authority not only recognizes these efforts as successful, but also announces further close cooperation with the group, is of course grist to the mill of this strategy. The BSI has shown in the past that there is another way: When hackers discovered a gap in Apple’s mail app, the authority issued a public warning against checking emails with the program.

Source:BSI