Apple "Remote Management" or MDM Privacy

Information

Bowdoin College uses a tool called Jamf to manage Bowdoin-owned Apple devices, like iPads, iPhones, and Macs. Jamf is a Mobile Device Management (MDM) tool.

Jamf helps Bowdoin IT:

• keep a basic inventory of devices,
• install and update apps,
• and make sure security settings are turned on.

Jamf follows Apple’s privacy rules. This means Bowdoin IT cannot see your personal activities on your Bowdoin-issued device. 

This article contains a simple breakdown of what IT can and cannot control or view. 

What settings Bowdoin IT maintains

To help keep the device secure, Bowdoin IT enforces settings like: 

• A 6-digit (or longer) passcode
• Device encryption
• Activation Lock (If the device needs to be erased, IT may need to unlock it. This helps prevent theft and resale.)
• The device cannot be jailbroken (only Apple-approved operating systems and the official App Store are allowed.

What Bowdoin IT can see

Bowdoin IT can see basic device and app information: 

• Device details (make, model, serial number, IMEI)
• Software info (OS version, last update, available updates)
• App details (app name, install date, app size)
• Which Bowdoin device is assigned to which person (helpful if a device is lost or stolen)

What Bowdoin IT can’t do or see

Because of Apple privacy rules, Bowdoin IT cannot access personal data like: 

• Your web browsing (no websites, web traffic, or browsing history)
• Your files or folders (including personal files, photos, and videos)
• Your messages or calls (Messages, FaceTime, and similar apps)
• Your device location (no GPS tracking)
• Your full device screen or other apps during support (support access is limited to the support app only)

Common questions

Can Jamf access my files I downloaded at any time?

No. Jamf/MDM does not let Bowdoin IT see your downloaded files, your folders, or what is inside your files. 

What can Jamf access on my computer?

Jamf can access management information, like:

• your device type and serial number,
• your macOS/iOS version and update status,
• and a list of installed apps (name, install date, size). 

Jamf does not let IT read your documents, see your photos, or watch what you do online. 

If I get a Bowdoin MacBook, is it loaded with monitoring software?

Bowdoin-owned Macs are managed with Jamf (MDM). This is for security and support, not “monitoring” your personal activity. Bowdoin IT cannot see your browsing history, your personal files, or your Messages.