An anonymous user accessed a Microsoft Teams call with Cellebrite representatives and leaked details about the company’s phone unlocking technology. The leak, confirmed by 404 Media, includes a Support Matrix outlining unlocking capabilities for Google Pixel devices. This follows previous leaks that impacted Cellebrite and its competitor Grayshift.
The leaked information includes a screenshot of a Cellebrite Support Matrix, which details the company’s ability to unlock various phone models, including the latest Google Pixel 9 series. The matrix covers both ‘before first unlock’ (BFU) and ‘after first unlock’ (AFU) scenarios. The screenshot also highlights the limitations of Cellebrite’s technology on devices running the security-focused GrapheneOS operating system. Cellebrite is unable to unlock Pixel 9 devices running GrapheneOS in the BFU state.
The leak, which appears to have occurred during a sales call in October, provides insight into Cellebrite’s strategies for bypassing security measures on Android devices. The incident raises concerns about the security of sensitive data on smartphones and the potential implications for law enforcement and private users alike. The leak has prompted discussions among security experts about the need for stronger encryption and device-specific countermeasures against forensic tools.
Cellebrite and Grayshift, which was acquired by Magnet Forensics, have been engaged in a competitive race to develop more advanced phone unlocking techniques. The recent leak may impact the market dynamics of the cybersecurity and digital forensics industry, influencing both company strategies and consumer trust in the security of their devices.