Image via Engadget

Looks like the days of happy go lucky Jailbreaking may be short lived. Apple has filed a patent that would effectively kill jailbroken devices should certain activities be detected. The patent is being presented as a means to increase user security and protect against lost or stolen devices. The security enhancements are detailed in this report.

Beyond basic jailbreak detection and termination, this patent strives to identify unauthorized users via heartbeat and “phone home” if an unauthorized user is detected. When security is breached the phone could take pictures of its surroundings and log GPS and then send them to the owner. The phone would also start keeping a log of any activity by the unauthorized user.

Adding these features to “i” devices will greatly increase security and protect users from theft, but they seem extreme. What if you want to Jailbreak a device you own? It’s not illegal. And do you feel comfortable with a device that can broadcast so much real time user data at the flip of the switch?

via mashable