NO...my concern is if the SIM in the Iphone can be used for personal use...like it can be in a standard GSM/SIM phone.

With regard to what the kid did...

In the Iphone spec, I note GSM with 4 lockable bands and nothing with regard to the SIM involved or other ability. http://www.apple.com/iphone/specs.html

There are 4 lockable bands on the GSM/SIM of the Iphone.

Quad-band (850, 900, 1800, 1900 MHz)

The phone will be locked on to one of the bands, depending on the market service provider. What the kid did was short out the path allowing all the bands to be recognized or unlocked.

From my previous post link..did you read it?...lol

http://www.cellularabroad.com/q_as.h...

I currently have a GSM Phone. Will it work overseas?
It is possible, though unlikely, that your current US GSM cell phone will work overseas. Most GSM phones sold in the US are only compatible with the nation-wide operating frequency of 1900 MHz (or the emerging 850MHz band). Overseas services use 900 and/or 1800 MHz frequency standards, which is why we carry only (unlocked) tri-band phones. Most carriers offer global tri-band phones, however they provide them "locked" which is a distinct disadvantage for the consumer.
All GSM cell phones sold through Cellular Abroad are unlocked and ready to use on practically all GSM networks and with all SIM cards. At Cellular Abroad we believe in freedom of choice for our customers in order to provide the best possible price on airtime and network service. Most other plans force you to use one system with no control over airtime pricing nor the lowest rates available.

doni