The Stolen Device Protection setting will keep fraudsters from getting to the user’s information.
Apple is renowned for its role as a leader in consumer electronics security, especially since other operating systems are so easy to hack. Despite Apple’s excellent user protection, thieves and hackers still find ways. As such situations increased, Apple implemented quick “Security updates” issued to devices when developers fixed a serious security gap.
iPhone users can view sensitive data and make significant changes to their phone’s settings with a passcode, the four- or six-digit number string used to unlock a device, view credit card information, and see all stored passwords.
This flaw enabled hackers to access user accounts, steal stored passwords, siphon finances, and lock users out of their digital devices, including Apple’s iCloud. Users couldn’t access their information on other devices because all of their iCloud accounts are linked to the same account.
To fix this, Apple is adding a new tool to iOS called Stolen Device Protection. The security step is meant to stop thieves from exploiting these weak spots in iPhones. With more steps to access iPhones’ massive amounts of personal data, the new feature will discourage fraudsters.
What Exactly is Stolen Device Protection
Stolen Device Protection is a setting that is meant to keep cyber fraudsters from getting to the user’s info. Wall Street Journal reports that only beta testers are getting the new functionality. Anyone with an Apple device may join the Apple Beta Software program to try the latest improvements and give Apple feedback.
The new protection system will be part of a software update as planned. Users will have to turn on the setting directly for it to work. Apple’s effort to strengthen its security system doesn’t address all dangers to iPhone customers’ personal and financial data. It solely addresses issues caused by current break-ins and system vulnerabilities.
How the Stolen Device Protection Works
Locking or securing a device usually means using a PIN, Touch ID, or Face ID. The PIN will work if Touch ID or Face ID doesn’t work. The PIN is a locked device’s most essential protection part.
A PIN is a string of six to eight numbers, and once it gets into the wrong hands, it can’t be taken back. Stolen Device Protection makes a big difference in keeping the data safe. While the user is away from known places like home or work, the iPhone will limit some settings if the Stolen Device Protection setting is turned on.
What Limitations are Enabled With The New Stolen Device Protection Configuration
It offers security upgrades that need the Stolen Device Protection configuration. Once activated, the option will give iPhone users these security improvements:
To change your Apple ID password:
Without protection, thieves may change Apple account passwords, lock you out, and turn off Find My iPhone, making the iPhone resaleable.
With Protection, you need a Face ID or Touch ID to change your Apple ID password when you’re not in a place you know. A one-hour delay and biometric scanning are added. This is a prerequisite to changing the password at an unknown location.
Change the settings for Apple Security:
Thieves may activate a recovery key without protection, preventing phone or email Apple ID password resets. Someone who knows your PIN can use a restore key to get in. This is yet another choice that Apple made to keep people safe from hackers. This 28-character random code gives you greater flexibility over changing your Apple ID password to log back in, improving security.
If a hacker creates a recovery key, they will have more influence over your password reset procedure, and you will lose access to all your images, data, contacts, etc. You might lose everything in your iCloud and never be seen again. The extra safety steps are only used when the user is not at home, work, or in a known place. The device will instantly learn and remember these places.
Stay tuned for the latest releases in the tech world, including updates on Apple M3 and Microsoft Surface Innovations in 2024. What are your views about the latest Stolen Device Protection feature added to iOS? Share your thoughts on how this innovative security enhancement could impact your device usage. Comment below and explore Adi4u for more updates.
