Apple Launches Stolen Device Protection Feature to Enhance iPhone Security
In a move to combat the rising number of phone thefts, Apple has introduced a new feature called Stolen Device Protection. This feature aims to provide additional layers of security to iPhones, making it more difficult for thieves to access sensitive information stored on the device. With the increasing prevalence of phone thefts, this feature comes as a welcome addition to Apple’s arsenal of security measures.
Stolen Device Protection is included in the latest version of Apple’s mobile operating system, iOS 17.3, which was released today. This feature is designed to protect users’ data without requiring any additional action on their part. By enabling Stolen Device Protection, users can add extra limits to certain settings on their iPhone when it is not in a familiar location, such as their home or workplace. This means that even if a thief manages to unlock the stolen phone, they will still need to provide biometric information, such as Face ID or Touch ID, to make any changes to the settings.
Jake Moore, a global cybersecurity adviser at security firm Eset and a former police computer crime investigator, believes that this new feature will act as a significant barrier for thieves. He states, “Selling phones will always be big business among organized crime groups, but criminals will just need to work harder on their craft now.” With Stolen Device Protection in place, thieves will face additional challenges when attempting to target victims.
The added security measures provided by Stolen Device Protection extend beyond simple passcode protection. When someone tries to access passwords or passkeys stored in iCloud’s keychain, use payment methods saved in Safari, turn off Lost Mode, erase the phone, apply for a new Apple Card, view the virtual number of an Apple Card, or transfer money with Apple Cash, they will encounter extra checks that require biometric authentication. Furthermore, if the phone is not in a familiar location, Apple will implement a one-hour “security delay” after using biometrics. During this hour, biometric information will be required again to make any changes to the settings.
Mark Stockley, a cybersecurity expert at security firm Malwarebytes, suggests that Apple’s increasing reliance on biometrics indicates a growing confidence in these technologies. He believes that this could be a step towards a future where passcodes are no longer necessary. With a decade of experience in biometrics, Apple has developed a level of expertise that allows them to place greater trust in these authentication methods.
While Stolen Device Protection is undoubtedly a significant step forward in enhancing iPhone security, it is important to note that it does not protect all aspects of the device if it falls into the wrong hands. It is advisable to ensure that data is regularly backed up and to consider adding an additional passcode or PIN to certain apps, such as WhatsApp, for an extra layer of protection.
In the unfortunate event that an iPhone is stolen, there are further steps that users can take to regain control of their device. Changing the Apple ID password and signing out of devices and websites currently logged in is recommended. Additionally, marking the phone as lost and remotely wiping it through iCloud’s Find Devices settings can help prevent unauthorized access to personal information.
By enabling Stolen Device Protection, iPhone users can significantly increase the security of their devices and make life more challenging for potential thieves. While it is hoped that these features will never need to be utilized, they provide peace of mind and an added layer of protection in an increasingly digital world.