It has been revealed in social media posts that Apple (NASDAQ: APPL) disabling and remotely tracking iPhones stolen from its stores amid rioting and looting. Images shared on social media show iPhones displaying messages instructing thieves to return stolen phones to stores.
The death of George Floyd has spurred nationwide civil rights protests; some, however, have taken advantage of the demonstrations to launch attacks against storefronts and, in many cases, loot goods. Looting has been reported in cities across the United States, including New York City and St. Louis, among others. Among the stores looted in cities across the country have been several Apple stores, where looters have stolen floor models.
Apple stores have not been open for long; with the stores not being deemed an essential business, the tech company was forced to close its locations around the country. Amid the riots and looting, Apple has decided to re-close some of its locations.
Apple, however, warned looters that it was tracking the stolen phones. While Apple has not directly addressed the looting (stating it does not discuss "security concerns"), the company warned thieves by-proxy through warning messages displayed on stolen phones. The message, seen on pictures circulating on social media, reads, "Please return to Apple Walnut Street. This device has been disabled and is being tracked. Local authorities will be alerted". It is unknown if Apple has been in contact with local authorities.
The remote locking and tracking are not standard features of Apple's popular iOS operating system; rather, the feature is specific to a special version of iOS used on floor models. The security features predate the looting and are a standard loss prevention feature at Apple Stores across the country.
While Apple has not addressed the looting specifically, it has, however, spoken out in support of civil rights protestors. Apple CEO Tim Cook addressed the matter, telling employees that the death of George Floyd was "senseless" and that the corporation would be donating to human rights groups.