One of the unique features of iOS devices is the iMessage. This nifty feature allows users to send their messages through cloud instead of going over the traditional SMS text messaging system. It is implemented into the existing Messages App, and the release of the latest iOS 11 has added a few enhancements that have made the feature more intuitive. Issues do remain on how to archive iphone text messages.
However, despite all the praise that this feature gets, many experts and regulatory bodies find it a hindrance in staying compliant with various recordkeeping regulations to archive iphone text messages set by SEC, NARA, FINRA, etc. In fact, the FBI criticized Apple in 2015 for being unable to read iPhone users’ messages after Justice Department obtains iMessage ruling.
Whether Apple’s behavior violates any laws remains to be determined. However, since iMessage takes over user’s messaging by moving the data they send through Apple’s servers instead of their mobile carrier there is no doubt that creating an iphone text message archive using a third-party platform has occurred.
Moreover, while the use of end-to-end encryption in messaging is the best way to keep communications secure, the use of iMessage as a secure enterprise messaging platform still requires robust deliberation, expressly so if the company operates in a highly regulated industry such as the finance or healthcare.
Archive iPhone Text Messages Difficulties
Other reasons why it is difficult to archive sms iphone text messages through iMessages include:
- iMessage Does not Route via Mobile Carrier. As stated above, the iMessage allows an iOS user to send text/picture messages to other iOS users, making it almost impossible for mobile carriers to create an iphone text message archive and keep a copy of the messages sent and received on the device.
- Needs to be Blocked by MDM to Avoid Non-Compliance – Various text message archiving requirements for companies and public offices are to use MDM (Mobile Device Management) tools to monitor corporate and BYOD-devices in their organization.
- Manually Archiving iMessages is a Painstaking Process. There are tons of articles over the web discussing different ways to backup iMessages. While these methods can work for private users, it can be a lengthy and cumbersome process for companies that manage hundreds or even thousands of iOS devices.
iPhone Text Message Archive
For many organizations, the use of encryption technologies to communicate with their peers and clients is undoubtedly the safest way available to protect their privacy. However, these platforms also present caveats for organizations that are required to monitor, track, and archive iphone text message data records. So, how can it be guaranteed that despite end-to-end encryption, the message will remain readable throughout the iphone text message archiving period?
Regulatory bodies recommend organizations to make use of an enterprise mobile archiving platform that will enable employees to send and receive secure messages, archive iphone text messages, and at the same time capture those messages for compliance, authentication, and a complete audit trail.
Instead of using a native encrypted messaging app (iMessage, WhatsApp, Signal), organizations should instead invest in an enterprise-grade messaging platform for their iphone text message archive requirements that will enable them to send and receive relevant and confidential information and remain compliant with the recordkeeping requirements on their industry. Overall, with a proper mobile archiving solution in place, private companies and federal agencies will be able to communicate securely and avoid costly financial fines and non-monetary sanctions.
Note: iMessages are not delivered over the mobile network carrier and therefore the iphone text message archive cannot be performed with the TeleMessage Network Archiver. To capture all messages sent/received to iPhones, it is advised to either block iMessage for employees using iPhones with an MDM/EMM tool or use the Enterprise Number Archiver product. You can also block iMessage using Restrictions settings and Apple configurator.
