'Securely' Resetting iphone and updating iOS

Even though it’s best to trash the device, the same thing would happen with the next device. User would like to go ahead with it anyway for purposes of learning and semblance of defense.

Iphone SE 2 likely/possibly hacked by advanced malware. Physical access lost 2x.

Nation state threat.

Would like to factory reset (maybe DFU, but have no trusted machine) and update to 26.

What’s the best approach. Reset first, then update? etc

Phone is in lockdown mode with user not logged in except when downloading new apps. Can update apps without being logged in. There is an esim.

User has linux machines (no Macs). Has no physical security for machines or cable or secure dwelling which is routinely entered.

If you are being serious about this the only way to be 100% sure is to throw it into the shredder.

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Even though it’s best to trash the device, the same thing would happen with the next device. User would like to go ahead with it anway for purposes of learning and semblance of defense.

User has linux machines (no Macs). Has no physical security for machines or cable nor a secure dwelling, It is routinely entered.

I think for iPhones specifically the preferred way to wipe would be to dfu device and use another device to restore.

Otherwise, you are stuck with the reset directly from the device in settings.

Since the first option is a no go, then I guess second option is the only one you can do, though the assumption should be that the device could still be compromised.

That being said shredding the current device is still the best option and getting a new one for 100% confidence that the malware simply isnt present anymore is best.

100% confidence is not needed or possble.

What is the worst choice. Compromised home machines, older Mac in a hotel lobby, Newer Mac in a shop that sells macs (not apple store)