Apple’s Stolen Device Protection: How to Keep Your iPhone Secure
In a world where our smartphones hold our entire lives, losing one can be a devastating experience. From precious photos to important files and even access to our bank accounts, the consequences of a stolen iPhone can be dire. However, Apple has recently rolled out an update to its iOS operating system that aims to make it much harder for phone thieves to access key functions and settings. This new feature, called Stolen Device Protection, is a game-changer in the fight against phone theft.
The software update for iPhones and iPads includes this essential new feature designed to foil thieves from wiping phones for resale or accessing Apple ID or other important accounts. Stolen Device Protection is a new setting that’s included with the latest iOS release, version 17.3. Apple says the feature adds an extra layer of security for users, addressing a vulnerability that thieves have discovered and exploited.
Phone thefts have been on the rise, with stories of stolen phones surfacing on Reddit groups and in news articles from Los Angeles to London. Pickpocketing, “table surfing,” and moped snatching are common tactics used by thieves. Criminals have even been known to watch people use their passcodes and gain access to their personal information after stealing their phones.
So, how does Stolen Device Protection work? This feature keeps track of a user’s “familiar locations,” such as their home or workplace, and adds extra biometric security measures if someone tries to use the device outside of these places. It reduces the importance of passcodes, which can be easily stolen, in favor of biometric features like Face ID or Touch ID, which are much harder to duplicate.
For example, let’s say a thief snatches your iPhone at a crowded bar and tries to erase its contents and settings to sell it. With Stolen Device Protection turned on, the phone will require a Face ID or Touch ID scan to verify that the person is the rightful owner. The new feature doesn’t allow someone to use the passcode or any other backup method. Additionally, other actions like using passwords saved in Keychain or payment methods saved in Safari, turning off Lost Mode, applying for a new Apple Card, or setting up a new device will trigger this feature.
There’s also a second layer of protection designed to slow down thieves attempting to access critical security settings. If someone tries to sign out of an Apple ID account, change the passcode, or reset the phone while it’s in an unfamiliar location, they’ll have to authenticate using Face ID or Touch ID, wait an hour, and then do a second facial or fingerprint scan. This delay is meant to prevent thieves from performing critical operations and ensure that the device is marked as lost while keeping the Apple account secure.
Activating Stolen Device Protection is simple if you know where to look. First, download and update your iPhone or iPad with the latest iOS update. Then go to your settings and scroll down to “Face ID & Passcode” or “Touch ID & Passcode.” Enter your passcode and scroll down until you see Stolen Device Protection. Depending on your iPhone model, you’ll need to tap or toggle to turn it on or off. It’s important to note that you must have already activated two-factor authentication and Find My device for your Apple ID account for this feature to appear.
Stolen Device Protection applies to iPhone XS and newer models, including second- and third-generation SE models. If you own one of these devices, it’s crucial to activate this feature immediately to protect your iPhone from potential theft.
In a world where our smartphones hold so much of our personal information, it’s essential to take every precaution to keep them secure. Apple’s Stolen Device Protection is a step in the right direction, providing users with an extra layer of security and peace of mind. By activating this feature and utilizing biometric authentication, we can make it much harder for thieves to access our valuable data. So, don’t wait any longer—update your iOS, activate Stolen Device Protection, and keep your iPhone safe.
