Possible data protection breaches at Apple: Deleted photos reappear on sold devices

IOS 17.5 and iPadOS 17.5 were released on May 13 and brought several new features, including enhanced anti-stalking features and the ability to download apps directly from developer websites. However, it seems the update has also opened the doors to a privacy issue.

As one Reddit user reports that deleted photos have reappeared on his recently sold iPad after the buyer updated the device to iPadOS 17.5. The user had reset and sold the iPad according to the official instructions from Apple, but the old photos reappeared after the update. In the comments under the Reddit post, many other users who have the same problem have spoken up.

So far, Apple has made no official statement about this problem. There is also no indication that the company is working on a solution. This is causing growing concern among users. Apple-Users who have already sold their iPhones or iPads to third parties are worried that their private pictures could fall into the hands of strangers.

Update May 21: iOS patch 17.5.1 should fix the problem

On the morning of May 20, Apple released an iOS/iPadOS update without further comment, which is apparently intended to fix the problem. To install, simply open the settings on the iPhone or iPad and select “Software update”. The device will then automatically search for the latest update. However, an apology from Apple remains to be seen for those affected by the data protection glitch.