Do Phone Repair Shops Steal Parts?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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People with cracked touch screens or similar smartphone maladies have a new headache to consider:

the possibility the replacement parts installed by shops contain secret hardware that completely hijacks the security of the device

.

Can Repair Shops Hack iphones?

The repair shop people may or may not be professionally sound, you never know that,

they can go through your phone, steal your data, harass you with the data, stalk you so better take the precaution to not give them your passcode.

Can phone repair shops steal your data without password?


No, unless absolutely necessary

. The repair guys can access your phone even without knowing what your password is, so this would be a pointless move.

Can phone repair shops steal your photos?

Originally Answered: Do phone repair shops look at your pictures?

They may not actively go through your content

, but if they find anything that may be suspicious or illegal, they will usually contact the Police and the phone will be confiscated for investigation.

How do I protect my phone before repair?

For Android users:

Go to Settings -> Security & lock screen -> Lock screen and then remove the PIN, pattern lock or any other stumbling block that you have added

. For iPhone users: You need to turn off the Passcode. Go to Settings -> Touch ID & Passcode. On devices without Touch ID, go to Settings -> Passcode.

Should I wipe my phone before repair?

Perform a Factory Reset


If you have sensitive data on your device, then reset your phone

. This will protect your data from getting stolen and you will be carefree. However, remember to back up all your data before resetting your phone.

Why do phone repair shops ask for your password?

They need your password

to diagnose if anything goes wrong afterwards

, not necessarily while they're repairing the screen. They wouldn't put anything illegal on your device and risk their entire business.

Can a broken iPhone be hacked?


Apple iPhones can be compromised and their sensitive data stolen through hacking software that doesn't require the target to click on a link

, according to a report by Amnesty International.

Should I erase iPhone before repair?

The short answer is “

no, you shouldn't erase your iPhone before screen repair

.” However, the complete answer would be “yet, you should save your data before handing your device to the repair shop.” And here is why Mr. Fix cell phone repair services always insist on our customers doing so.

Should you give your password to phone repair?


You have to give them your password so they can test it

, and so you just need to be aware of that.” Here's what Kappes suggests: Sign out of your apps, including social media accounts and mobile banking apps. If you have an Android, you may also want to sign out of your Google Chrome and Gmail accounts.

How can I secure my iPhone for repair?

To protect your data, erase your iOS device. Remove your iOS device from your Apple ID device list. Remove the SIM card from your iOS device or iPadOS device if it uses one, and keep it in a safe place. If your iOS device doesn't use a SIM card,

contact your wireless service provider to suspend service if necessary

.

David Martineau
Author
David Martineau
David is an interior designer and home improvement expert. With a degree in architecture, David has worked on various renovation projects and has written for several home and garden publications. David's expertise in decorating, renovation, and repair will help you create your dream home.