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Is ipsw.me safe?

My sister forgot her password on her iPhone 6s (which somehow won't allow her to update past iOS 13), and she asked me to sort it out. I looked on YouTube and a person said to use ipsw.me and download files. I don't trust it. So, should I download those files (which state that it will update the phone to iOS 15)?

Earlier iPhone models

Posted on Nov 30, 2024 6:11 AM

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Nov 30, 2024 6:15 AM in response to KoolKidd849

Uh... Asking ChatGPT kinda changed my mind.

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The website ipsw.me is generally considered safe to use because it doesn't host files directly; instead, it provides links to Apple's servers, where official iOS firmware files (IPSWs) are stored. Since the files come directly from Apple, they are legitimate and not tampered with, and they require Apple's verification (or "signing") to install on devices. This ensures that the downloaded files are authentic and safe to use.

However, some users have reported confusion about non-SSL links, but these are still pointing to Apple's official servers, which makes them safe (​MacRumors Forums) (​Apple Support Community).

Just ensure that the version you are downloading is still signed by Apple, as unsigned versions cannot be installed (MacRumors Forums).

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So is that a yay or nay?


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Nov 30, 2024 6:24 AM in response to KoolKidd849

It appears safe, but URLs can be disguised (though these would be difficult, I would think) so there can be no guarantees since we don't know who maintains that site and whether they are trustworthy. I would think it better to just use Apple's official restore procedure:


If you forgot your iPad passcode, use your Mac or PC to reset it - Apple Support


As a general note, I would suggest not trusting ChatGPT for any information that you cannot verify from the original sources. ChatGPT and other large-language models are known for just making up information.


Regards.


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Is ipsw.me safe?

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