What is mobile device management?

What is Mobile Device Management on my IPhone?

iPhone 13, iOS 16

Posted on Apr 1, 2023 7:26 PM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Mar 19, 2024 6:42 AM

Mobile Device Management (MDM) is security software used by organizations to manage smartphones and tablets. It allows remote configuration of settings, app management, security policies enforcement, device monitoring, and remote wipe/lock capabilities. On iPhones, MDM provides centralized control over device settings, applications, and security, enhancing organization-wide security and efficiency.


[Edited by Moderator]

30 replies

Aug 3, 2023 4:44 PM in response to thechoosenone1

thechoosenone1 wrote:

How about if there was no consent by the owner? or better yet how about if you paid for the device and was not aware that your Iphone 14 plus came with a locked esim and mdm and the owner of device had no idea ?


If you didn't pay attention to whether you bought a carrier-locked iPhone or not, you mainly have yourself to blame.


When I bought my iPhone, Apple's checkout page made it clear under what conditions I'd get a locked phone, and under what conditions I'd get an unlocked one.

Aug 3, 2023 4:46 PM in response to Bellarose08

Hi Bella I took a pic of the hotspot and removed the vender name. In the process, I also received another message under the Face ID image, it quickly said “all known networks are locked”? First time I’ve seen that one. But using previous provided steps, you should see something like the pics. BTW, while creating and editing to remove the name, the Wi-Fi detector is going off like crazy! This hotspot can’t be deleted, and it’s not possible per my cell provider.

Aug 3, 2023 5:12 PM in response to Lawrence Finch

Well, all devices were new, from Apple or Best Buy. All did not have MDM (I had all the old ones before going back to iPad 1), but after a hospital stay, all had MDM. It is free on the Apple Store (up to 20 users). It can be downloaded to a Mac computer. If one device is installed (hands on), then all devices within the same network can be installed, all OS as well! This is the second time this has happened. The previous time, I was in the hospital and an MDM (not Apple) was downloaded to 2 Windows devices, and a key stroke logger, home Alarm (all internal) was compromised. But I could view the vender name after a search for recent files on Windows, located 100s of MDM files, most cab files or cabinet files. I found the vender name, called them, they removed it on the spot. This was many years ago. When I was working as Global Info Sec Manager, people and companies were much more helpful. Fast forward to multiple surgeries, no title, and no help. Anyway, the two mention laptops were reformatted, updated and good to go. I still have the same devices but had not used them. But I pulled out all old Windows PCs, tried to look at issues, identified the MDM again, but no vender name was displayed. The MDM was “purchased” on my ID along with many other apps and hidden. I was not aware purchases could be hidden, but there it was. I’ve even thought it could be a rogue MDM, and available on the dark web? But my devices no longer permit installation (or if something I purchase is removed), I can no longer view anything, about 7-8 windows PCs, both old and new, and all iPad minis (except mini 3), iPhones, Android and Google Pixel were compromised. Also, some IoT devices were sending data (streaming devices). And other IoT found planted in home. Wi-Fi smart bulb, an illegal in US listening bulb that charges when plugged it, door bell conversion to Wi-Fi (instructions on DIY out there), and a managed Wi-Fi hotspot that has an IP that resolves to the same place as the MDM. Everything, all accounts compromised. Still searching for more devices, but some, such as a “listening light bulb” that can be purchased in another country does not emit a signal. It’s been very consuming. And there is so much more, but not tech related (such as identity theft), so I won’t go into that part. While it can be and likely is preinstalled for companies, it can also be downloaded and installed from the App Store. I was in the hospital for about a month, this has hindered my recovery significantly.

Aug 3, 2023 6:35 PM in response to Lawrence Finch

I actually meant my comments to go under the second question, “how do I tell if I have MDM on my device”, assuming it was unauthorized or hidden like many others. A link to Apple documentation would have been appropriate for this question, and easier. But I only saw 1 response, are there many more responses that I missed? I’ve been trying to get this off my devices since it first appeared. Things started in 2021, and keep getting worse. The responses from others are helpful. It’s also helpful to see many ppl with the exact same issues that otherwise ppl say are “impossible” when in fact, they are very possible. The MDM icon included a “hide” link. I guess since the app was hidden? Idk, but it’s the first time I ever saw an app with a hide option. It also said for me to contact the administrator of the app. My account, my device, not company owned. I know some have struggled for years, like me, and never get it removed or are still trying. But I just updated to let her know I was responding to the second question. If it’s a legit installation, it is apparently easier to get rid of and does not spread over your entire network!

Aug 3, 2023 6:51 PM in response to MrHoffman

Yes, I have evidence, please read my profile. And yes, I’ve discussed with Apple. And I’ve learned the location of the missing devices. While you are correct that I responded to the wrong comment, the issues are well documented. I’m I the only person you have responded to? And you are in legal justice? Very interesting.


apple does not support 3rd party apps, but this one was developed by Apple. Please search on unauthorized MDM apps, to learn more real issues.

Mar 19, 2024 10:09 AM in response to Bellarose08

How long have you had your iPhone? When, and where, did you see ‘mobile device management?

Is your iPhone a personal device? If so, do you use it as a ‘Bring Your Own Device’ as a company work phone?

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

What is mobile device management?

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