For the past few years, Apple has been inviting experienced researchers to apply to its security program, which issues iPhones that are especially modified to make it easier to investigate vulnerabilities. Now, applications are open to next year’s program. Here’s how you can apply.
This year’s application period ends October 31
This is how Apple describes its Security Research Device Program:
“The Security Research Device (SRD) is a specially fused iPhone that allows you to perform iOS security research without having to bypass its security features. You also benefit from access to software previews, security beta projects, the SRD research community, and special tooling to augment research and vulnerability discovery. Shell access is available, and you can run any tools, choose your own entitlements, and even customize the kernel. All iOS and iPhone components are eligible for SRD Program research, except Apple Pay and third-party apps. Using the SRD allows you to confidently report all your findings to Apple without the risk of losing access to the inner layers of iOS security. Plus, any vulnerabilities that you discover with the SRD are automatically considered for Apple Security Bounty — including bonus awards for preview and beta software programs.”
When an application is approved, Apple lends the modified iPhone for 12 months. The company stresses that these iPhones are not meant for everyday use and “must remain on the premises of program participants at all times.”
To apply, researchers must meet a few prerequisites, including:
Have a proven track record of success in finding security issues on Apple platforms, or other modern operating systems and platforms.
Be based in an eligible country or region (Argentina, Armenia, Australia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, India, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Moldova, Montenegro, Morocco, Netherlands, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Senegal, Serbia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom (UK), United States.)
Be the legal age of majority in the jurisdiction in which you reside (18 years of age in many countries).
Not be employed by Apple currently or in the last 12 months.
Apple doesn’t disclose in advance which iPhone model will be issued. You can find more information and apply through this link on Apple’s Security Research website.
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