Apple released an important software update for the iPhone on Monday evening. With iOS 17.3, users receive a new security feature that, in addition to Activation Lock, protects against data and identity theft and can put iPhone thieves out of business.
What is that good for?
Apple Support explains the new security feature called “Stolen Device Protection”:
The history: In 2023, US media reports reported a security vulnerability that affected iPhone users with a simple device code (usually just four digits). Criminal groups took advantage of this by spying on potential victims and discovering the code. They then stole or stolen the iPhone and were able to do much more damage thanks to the device code. It was possible, among other things, to steal money via third-party apps.
How does iPhone theft protection work?
If the new security feature “Stolen Device Protection” is activated on the iPhone (read how below)There are stricter security requirements for some actions you want to perform with the device.
- Biometric authentication via iPhone facial recognition (Face ID) or fingerprint scanner (Touch ID): Some actions, such as accessing saved passwords and credit cards, require biometric authentication with Face ID or Touch ID. So it is not enough to know (and enter) the device code.
- Time delay for security-related actions: To change the Apple ID password, you must first wait an hour and then the iPhone operating system will perform a second authentication of the user via Face ID or Touch ID. This is to prevent a thief from quickly changing the password.
The trusted locations can be set and changed on the iPhone in Apple’s ‘Find My’ app.
How do I activate additional iPhone theft protection?
Before you can activate the theft protection, a number of requirements must be met, which are highly recommended for fundamental security reasons:
- 1. For your own Apple ID you need to do that Two-factor authentication enabled are. (➔ Settings app ➔ Apple ID ➔ Two-factor authentication)
- 2. The iPhone must secured with a device code are. At least 6 numbers, a longer combination of numbers, letters and special characters is much safer.
- 3. Must be Face ID or Touch ID activated are. (➔ Settings app ➔ Face ID & Code)
- 4. The “Where is?” function must be activated. (➔ App Settings ➔ Apple ID ➔ Find My ➔ Find My iPhone)
- 5. At the location services The “Points of Interest” option must be activated (➔ App Settings ➔ Privacy & Security ➔ Location Services ➔ System Services).
Now you need to complete the following steps:
- First you need to make sure that (at least) iOS 17.3 is installed on the iPhone.
- Now launch the “Settings” app and tap “Face ID & Code”. The system will then ask you to enter your device code (PIN/password) for security reasons.
- You can then activate (and deactivate) “Protection against stolen devices”.
For which iPhone models is the extra protection available?
The iOS 17 mobile operating system can be installed on the following devices:
- iPhone XR
- iPhone XS and XS Max
- iPhone XS Max
- iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
- iPhone 12, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max, 12 Mini
- iPhone 13, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max, 13 Mini
- iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
What does this have to do with the previous anti-theft and activation lock?
“Activation Lock” (also called “iCloud Activation Lock”) is a security feature that must be enabled on the iPhone (and other Apple devices).
As is known, missing devices can be marked as “lost” remotely (i.e. via the Internet). If you are sure that an iPhone has been stolen, you can delete the data stored on it.
The Activation Lock also prevents someone from (re)activating the device without the permission of the rightful owner. This means: Stolen iPhones are virtually unusable, apart from the fairly rare cases where a lot of criminal energy manages to bypass the theft protection. PS: Stay away from paid tools that claim you can remove the lock in simple steps! 😉
Sources
- support.apple.com: Stolen device protection for iPhone
- support.apple.com: Activation lock for iPhone and iPad
- support.apple.com: iPhone models compatible with iOS 17
Source: Watson
I’m Ella Sammie, author specializing in the Technology sector. I have been writing for 24 Instatnt News since 2020, and am passionate about staying up to date with the latest developments in this ever-changing industry.
