Apple’s latest iOS update includes a new feature, Stolen Device Protection, which makes it much harder for thieves to gain access to your most private information.
After installing iOS 17.3, you should be prompted to turn the feature on; otherwise you can open your Settings app, tap Face ID & Passcode, then make sure to toggle the Stolen Device Protection on. Settings may look different if you have an older iPhone. Once enabled, your iPhone will require additional authentication for the user to access information, and will prevent certain changes if it detects the device isn’t at a trusted location. For example, if you tried changing your Apple account password or your phone passcode when you aren’t at a trusted location, the feature requires you to wait an hour and authenticate a second time using Face ID or Touch ID. This would give you time to use Apple’s Find My tool to lock or wipe the device if stolen.
The enhanced security features only work when your iPhone is turned on and away from a “familiar location” which is defined as “home, work, and certain other locations where you regularly use your iPhone”. You can enable a Significant Locations settings so your iPhone can recognize familiar locations. So, when your device is safe at home, you won’t encounter any of these measures. In addition to this new feature, there are several other ways to secure your iPhone including making your passcode longer, protecting sensitive photos that contain personal information with Hide This Photo, protecting individual apps with a PIN or Face ID, requiring Face ID or Touch ID to view saved passwords, and enabling Find My on your iPhone.
To learn more details about important phone security measures, visit here.
