August 13, 2024 – Security researcher Matthew Bryant stumbled upon a trove of internal Apple documents after purchasing a second-hand Apple Time Capsule on eBay, according to a report published by Wired on August 10th.
Bryant, who acquired the device for 38plus40 shipping from the UK, discovered a “treasure trove” of data, including copies of the main backup server from all European Apple Stores in the 2010s. The information encompassed service tickets, employee bank account details, internal company documents, and emails.
Upon examining the contents of the Time Capsule, Bryant promptly alerted Apple about his findings. Consequently, the company’s security office in London requested the return of the device. Apple has not yet responded to Wired’s request for comment on Bryant’s discovery.
Furthermore, Bryant purchased an iPhone 14 prototype, developed for internal use by Apple, and a Mac Mini suspected to have originated from Foxconn’s quality inspection line, both from the second-hand market for $165. These devices contained a wealth of internal information and credentials related to Apple and Foxconn.
