VIDEO: Researchers reportedly jailbreak iPhone 18 Pro using a malicious PDF despite Lockdown Mode

A group of security researchers known as Calif has demonstrated a successful jailbreak of an iPhone 18 Pro with Apple’s Lockdown Mode enabled, according to a video published on November 3.

The researchers said the jailbreak remained functional even after the device was updated to iOS 27.2, raising questions about the limits of Apple’s security feature, which is designed to protect users facing highly sophisticated digital threats.

According to the report, the attack began when a malicious PDF file was sent to the phone through AirDrop. The user then manually opened the document. However, the researchers did not disclose the technical steps that followed, leaving the exact method used to compromise the device unclear.

A jailbreak removes software restrictions imposed by a device manufacturer, potentially giving users deeper access to the operating system and its functions.

Apple describes Lockdown Mode as an optional, high-security setting intended for a small number of people who may be targeted by sophisticated cyberattacks, including mercenary spyware. The feature was introduced in 2022.

In March 2026, Apple spokesperson Sarah O’Rourke told TechCrunch that the company was not aware of any successful mercenary spyware attacks against Apple devices with Lockdown Mode enabled.

The demonstration has drawn attention because it reportedly involved a device with that protection active. However, the researchers have not publicly explained the exploit in detail, and the available information does not establish whether the technique can be reproduced on other devices or versions of iOS.