According to wikipaedia, IOS jailbreaking, or simply jailbreaking, is the process of removing the limitations imposed by Apple on devices running the iOS operating system, which was known as “iPhone OS” prior to iOS 4.0. Such devices include iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch and recently Apple TV. Jailbreaking allows users to gain full access (or root access) to the operating system, thereby unlocking all its features. Once jailbroken, iOS users are able to download additional applications, extensions and themes that are unavailable through the official Apple App Store, via installers such as Cydia, one of a number of current means for older iPhones. A jailbroken iPad, iPhone or iPod Touch running iOS can still use the App Store and iTunes and other normal functions, such as making telephone calls. Unlike rooting an Android device, jailbreaking is necessary if the user intends to run software not authorized by Apple. At its core, jailbreaking a device gives access to its root filesystem, allowing modification and installing Third-party software components. This gives the user more control over the device and may enable features that were previously unavailable. Under the Digital Millennium Copyright Act, DMCA of 2010, jailbreaking is LEGAL, although Apple has announced that the practice “can void the warranty.
But it’s still a risky business.
A BROWSER BASED jailbreak service called Jailbreakme allows Ipad 2 users to escape the walled garden of IOS, thanks to the exploit of a vulnerability found by a hacker. The jailbreak works simply by pointing the Safari mobile web browser to the Jailbreakme website, where a program is installed that does the deed. Apart from the Ipad 2, the original Ipad, Iphone 3GS, Iphone 4, as well as the third and fourth generation Ipod touch are also hackable. But you have to take care because, as the developers themselves admit, it will put your Apple device at risk. It takes advantage of a PDF exploit, and afterwards jailbreakers are urged to download a program called PDF Patcher in Cydia to eliminate the risk. However, the jailbreak is reversible simply by restoring your device in ITunes to wipe the device and load the backup you previously saved. And it should be remembered that jailbreaking isn’t illegal. Of course, there are security implications of releasing an exploit for a vulnerability that is unpatched, but Jailbreakme developer is unrepentant. Comex said on the Jailbreakme website, “I did not create the vulnerabilities, only discover them. Releasing an exploit demonstrates the flaw, making it easier for others to use it for malice, but they have long been present and exploitable.” “Although releasing a jailbreak is certainly not the usual way to report a vulnerability, it still has the effect of making IOS more secure in the long run.”
– Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
