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FBI Forced Suspect To Unlock His iPhone X Through Face ID (engadget.com)

Posted by msmash on from the for-the-record dept.

In what may be a world first, the FBI has forced a suspect to unlock his iPhone X using Apple's Face ID feature. From a report: Agents in Columbus, Ohio entered the home of 28-year-old Grant Michalski, who was suspected of child abuse, according to court documents spotted by Forbes. With a search warrant in hand, they forced him to put his face on front of the device to unlock it. They were then able to freely search for his photos, chats and any other potential evidence. The FBI started investigating Michalski after discovering his ad on Craigslist titled "taboo." Later, they discovered emails in which he discussed incest and sex with minors with another defendant, William Weekly.

4 of 238 comments (clear)

  1. Re:Can they do that? by 110010001000 · · Score: 2, Informative

    1. Yes
    2. No

  2. Quickly disable Face/Touch ID by SirMasterboy · · Score: 4, Informative

    On FaceID devices, hold a volume button + lock button for a couple seconds then press cancel. FaceID will now be disabled until you enter your PIN.

    For TouchID devices, hold the lock button for a couple seconds and then press cancel.

  3. Re:Cue all the libtards bitching about his "rights by b0s0z0ku · · Score: 3, Informative

    He's not a criminal yet, merely someone accused of a crime. This is true until he (via guilty plea), a judge, or jury say otherwise.

  4. Re:Can they do that? by jeff4747 · · Score: 5, Informative

    A warrant says they have the right to search your house, or in this case device. it doesn't compel you to unlock it for them

    A warrant can compel you to provide "things you are". Such as fingerprints, DNA or opening your eyes for FaceID to work.

    A warrant can not compel you to provide "things you know", such as an unlock code.....as long as you didn't write it down anywhere, 'cause they can get that paper.