Jailbroken Device Detected

What is jailbreaking a phone? Jailbreaking an iPhone means removing Apple’s software restrictions to allow freedom to modify the device. You can do it by installing an app like Cydia. This acts as an alternative app store and package manager for iPhones.

What does "Jailbroken Device Detected" mean

The "Jailbroken Device Detected" alert means an app recognizes your iPhone as jailbroken—indicating that you or someone else has removed Apple's security restrictions to allow unauthorized modifications.

Applications that handle sensitive information like banking, finance, corporate data, and streaming services implement jailbreak detection to protect users, businesses, and sensitive data against security violations.

Since jailbroken devices are vulnerable to malware, data breaches, and unauthorized access, an app can restrict access or functionality for security purposes.

Such warnings are rarer today since jailbreaking is not as prevalent. Better security features in Apple and routine iOS updates have curbed jailbreaking and made it less practical. Even though it is obsolete, the truth is—you can still jailbreak your phone.

Why does "Jailbroken Device Detected" message appear

Some users still get the "Jailbroken Device Detected" message as false positives. The warning may occur on a non-jailbroken device due to system anomalies, old app detection algorithms, corrupted system files, or temporary jailbreak residuals from previous modifications. In this case, the app will refuse access to avoid exposing user data.

Let’s imagine you see the "Jailbroken Device Detected" message on your iPhone and have run Clario Anti Spy to confirm that it is not actually jailbroken. In that case, you can fix the issue by reinstalling the app, updating it, or reaching out to support. Read on to learn more about the best ways to fix the "Jailbroken Device Detected" warning.

How to fix "Jailbroken Device Detected" warning

Getting rid of the "Jailbroken Device Detected" warning is easy. First, determine if your phone is indeed jailbroken. It will take you just minutes with Clario Anti Spy’s Device system check. If you find signs of jailbreaking after running a scan, remove them, and the warning will disappear. If your device is not jailbroken, try deleting and downloading the app again or contacting support. Want to know more ways to fix the "Jailbroken Device Detected" message? Read on for our latest advice.

What to do if you got a warning but didn't jailbreak

Even if you’ve never jailbroken your iPhone, your device may have been jailbroken in the past, either by a previous owner or due to an attempted modification. Or, you might be dating a controlling partner who is trying to monitor your actions. Below, I’ve gathered some essential tips you can use if you received the "Jailbroken Device Detected" warning but didn't actually jailbreak your iPhone.

1. Check for leftover jailbreak files

Some system files related to jailbreaking can remain hidden, and trigger detection systems in security-sensitive apps like banking and corporate tools.

To check for jailbreak traces, you can:

1. Look for Cydia, Sileo, or Checkra1n apps in your App Library—these apps are commonly installed to allow jailbreaking.
2. If you're unsure, running an iOS security scanner like Clario Anti Spy's Device system check can help detect any lingering jailbreak files.

Here's how to use Clario Anti Spy's Device system check to see if your iPhone has been jailbroken:

1. Download Clario Anti Spy and set up a subscription to create an account.
2. Click Device system check on the dashboard.
3. Hit Scan.
4. The app will show you if your iOS is up-to-date and if any signs of jailbreaking have been detected.

It is relatively easy to check if an iPhone is jailbroken; however, if you do not consider yourself tech-savvy, make your life easier by using Clario Anti Spy’s Device system check.

2. Restart and update iOS

Sometimes, a system bug or outdated software may lead to the false detection of jailbreak signs. Restart your iPhone to reset your system processes and fix any temporary issues.

To restart your iPhone, follow these steps:

1. Press and hold the power button (power + volume button for newer models).
2. Slide right to shut down.
3. Wait for a few seconds, then turn it on.

If rebooting fails, try to update your iOS. Follow the below steps to find out if your iOS needs updating:

1. Go to Settings > General > Software Update and install the latest version of iOS if asked.
2. Turn on Automatic updates to be safe at all times.

3. Remove suspicious apps

Certain third-party apps can interfere with system processes and trigger false jailbreak detection. If you have installed unverified or unauthorized apps, then they could be the problem.

How to scan for suspicious apps:

1. Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage and look for installed apps.
2. Discover any apps not downloaded from the App Store or apps that modify system behavior.
3. Remove any suspicious programs and reboot your device.

Certain apps, particularly those that are installed from other app stores, may also leave jailbreak files on non-jailbroken devices.

4. Reset device settings or perform factory reset

If the issue continues, resetting your device settings may eliminate residual system misconfigurations without deleting your data.

To reset all settings (without data loss):

1. Navigate to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.
2. Press Reset > Reset All Settings.
3. Enter your passcode and proceed.

If the message continues, a factory reset may be in order. This entirely erases everything on the device, eliminating any embedded system errors.

To do a full factory reset:

1. Navigate to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings.
2. Back up your information first!
3. Restore your iPhone as directed on-screen.

Actions if your device is jailbroken

If you intentionally jailbroke your iPhone (or found out it was previously jailbroken), you might face issues with certain apps.

1. Should you remove jailbreak

Jailbreaking allows customization but with certain risks, including:

• Access to third-party apps and tweaks
• More control over iOS

But it also means:

• Security vulnerabilities. Jailbroken devices are more vulnerable to malware.
• App incompatibility. Banking, streaming, and enterprise apps can refuse to run.
• Warranty avoidance. Apple will not cover jailbroken devices under warranty.

If you require apps that block jailbroken devices or are experiencing instability, the safest option is to uninstall the jailbreak.

2. How to safely return to stock iOS version

Restoring your iPhone to factory settings will erase the jailbreak entirely and revert your device to Apple's official software. But before you start, here are some tips for you:

• Back up your data: Back up your key information with iCloud or iTunes.
• Use an authentic Apple cable: The cable that arrived in the iPhone box you bought it in will yield the most stable connection while the restoration is underway.
• Remove the SIM card: If possible, take out your SIM card prior to this.
• Disconnect wireless connections: Disable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to eliminate any external interference.
• Make use of a direct USB connection: Connect your iPhone directly to your computer's USB port without using extensions or hubs.

Now, let’s remove a jailbreak from your iPhone.

Step 1: Place the device in DFU mode.

Device Firmware Update (DFU) mode allows your iPhone to communicate with iTunes or Finder without loading the operating system, which enables a complete restore.

For iPhone 8 and later:

1. Connect the iPhone to the computer (use an original Apple cable).
2. Quickly press the volume up button and release.
3. Quickly press the volume down button and release.
4. Press and hold the side button—keep holding the button until the screen turns black.
5. When the screen turns black, continue to hold the side button and press and hold the volume down button.
6. Release the side button after five seconds, but keep holding the volume down button.

If you see the Apple logo, you've held the side button too long; try again. If you see a cable and computer icon, you've entered Recovery Mode; try again to enter DFU Mode.

How to know you have entered the DFU mode successfully:

• Black screen: The iPhone screen should be completely black.
• Computer detection: The computer should detect the iPhone in recovery mode with no device screen being displayed.

Step 2: Restore iPhone.

1. Open iTunes or Finder on your computer (ensure it is the latest version).
2. Detect iPhone. Your computer should recognize the iPhone in recovery mode.
3. Click Restore iPhone. This will erase all data and restore your phone to the latest iOS version.
4. Confirm the action. Follow any on-screen instructions to proceed.
5. Wait for the process to complete. Remember, don't unplug your iPhone during restoration.
6. Set up your iPhone. After restoration, you can set up your phone as new or restore using the backup you created earlier.

Once restored, your iPhone will be fully un-jailbroken, and apps that previously restricted access should work again.

Why apps detect jailbroken devices

Apps identify jailbroken phones to defend against security exploits, malware threats, data breaches, and adherence to regulatory compliance. By responding to these essentials, apps seek to keep their environment secure for users and safeguard sensitive data from possible risks related to jailbroken phones.

1. Security vulnerabilities

Jailbreaking an iOS device involves removing Apple's built-in security restrictions, allowing users to have root access to the operating system. While it allows for greater customization potential, it exposes the device to significant security risks. Without the protection of Apple security, the device can potentially face greater unauthorized intrusion, data compromise, and manipulation by malicious actors.

2. Malware and fraud risks

Jailbreaking removes security features and enables the third-party installation of unauthorized apps. These apps can evade the rigorous security checks that App Store apps undergo, thereby being more likely to be malware. Malicious software can also siphon user information and enable fraud and identity theft. This is why apps need to have built-in jailbreak detection mechanisms to protect users and the app’s ecosystem.

3. Data privacy concerns

Jailbreaking can compromise data privacy as it allows apps to access system files and user data without any constraints. This unrestricted access may lead to unauthorized data collection, leakage of personal information, and, ultimately, money loss.

Read more: Can an iPhone be hacked remotely?

4. Impact on compliance and regulatory standards

Most businesses are subject to strict compliance and regulatory standards that call for protecting user data and maintaining robust security protocols. Business activity on a jailbroken device can violate these standards since the compromised security environment fails to meet obligatory protocols.

Conclusion

Here we are! I hope the recommendations I’ve gathered in this article have helped you fix the “Jailbroken Device Detected” issue. If not, remember that you can always contact Clario Anti Spy’s tech support team from the app, 24/7. Our tech experts will gladly help you with anything you have for them.

Also, if you need to scan your phone for signs of jailbreak, the quickest way is to use Clario Anti Spy’s Device system check and be done with it in minutes.