While it's definitely on the user to safeguard data, it's also reprehensible to me that the Apple employees would factory reset a phone as anything but a matter of last resort. While the article is light on details, it seems possible that there wasn't anything wrong with the phone at all:
Thus far, it isn’t yet known if White was the target of a phishing scam via text message (a growing problem) or if the alert messages in question were legitimate.
I don't necessarily agree that Apple should be legally liable for the loss of data (likely, he signed a form saying that Apple wasn't responsible for any lost data when he agreed to have his phone serviced), but it's still very bad form.
I'm taking this quote, ironically from someone in the yahoo comments quoting to defend Apple, that is apparently from Apple:
What to expect at the Genius Bar.
Before you come in for your reservation, be sure to back up the data on the device that needs help. When you get to the Apple Store, ask a team member to check you in to the Genius Bar, or check in using the Apple Store app on your iPhone. During your session, your Genius will gather information about your system and answer your questions. If your product requires repair, the Genius will discuss repair options, explain any applicable charges, and prepare your equipment for repair. Most sessions last about 15 minutes, but some may take longer, depending on the issue.
While the data may be your responsibility, and even Apple warns you to back up the data, the "Genius" in charge of fixing his phone obviously didn't follow protocol. I think that's what could make Apple liable, that they didn't uphold their part of the service agreement.
While it's definitely on the user to safeguard data, it's also reprehensible to me that the Apple employees would factory reset a phone as anything but a matter of last resort. While the article is light on details, it seems possible that there wasn't anything wrong with the phone at all:
I don't necessarily agree that Apple should be legally liable for the loss of data (likely, he signed a form saying that Apple wasn't responsible for any lost data when he agreed to have his phone serviced), but it's still very bad form.
I'm taking this quote, ironically from someone in the yahoo comments quoting to defend Apple, that is apparently from Apple:
While the data may be your responsibility, and even Apple warns you to back up the data, the "Genius" in charge of fixing his phone obviously didn't follow protocol. I think that's what could make Apple liable, that they didn't uphold their part of the service agreement.