Cellebrite Hacking Tool limited access to Pixel Phones Running GrapheneOS, Leak Reveals
A newly leaked document details the capabilities of Cellebrite’s phone hacking technology, revealing varying degrees of access to Google Pixel phones depending on thier software configuration. The information, shared by a source identifying as “rogueFed,” indicates that Pixels running the security-focused GrapheneOS operating system are considerably more resistant to Cellebrite’s data extraction methods than those running stock Google software.
The leak underscores a growing concern about digital privacy and the tools available to law enforcement. While Cellebrite can reportedly extract data from unlocked, AFU (After First Unlock), and BFU (Before First Unlock) Pixel 6, 7, 8, and 9 phones running standard software, its access is severely limited on devices running GrapheneOS.This discrepancy highlights the potential for users to enhance their security through alternative operating systems, even as law enforcement seeks methods to bypass device protections.
According to the leaked Cellebrite briefing materials, Pixel phones with GrapheneOS are only accessible when running software predating late 2022. Updated builds,including those on the Pixel 8 and 9,are reportedly safe from Cellebrite access in both BFU and AFU states. As of late 2024, even fully unlocked grapheneos devices are immune to data copying, though they can still be inspected for user-accessible information.
Notably, the document also reveals that law enforcement remains unable to copy eSIMs from Pixel devices, a limitation that may become more significant as the Pixel 10 series is slated to eliminate physical SIM cards altogether.
The source claims to have accessed the information through two undetected calls and identified the meeting organizer, potentially leading to increased scrutiny of future Cellebrite briefings. google has been contacted for comment on why GrapheneOS offers greater protection against industrial hacking than its official Pixel OS.
