APPLE has created a Stolen Device Protection security feature that is finally rolling out to iPhones in the latest iOS 17.3 update.
It is intended to keep some actions, such as accessing your saved passwords or iCloud, behind a Face ID or Touch ID passcode in case a thief ever gets their hands on the device.
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It also puts a time delay of one hour on changing your device passcode or Apple ID password.
In the iOS 17.3 update note, Apple writes: “Security Delay requires Face ID or Touch ID, an hour wait, and then an additional successful biometric authentication before sensitive operations like changing device passcode or Apple ID password can be performed.”
The new security feature acts as an emergency back-up solution for when an iPhone gets stolen.
According to reports, there is a growing trend among phone snatchers of thieves tricking people into entering their passcode in front of them before taking off with the pricy handset.
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Stolen Device Protection can only be switched on for so-called “sensitive operations” which could jeopardise your data, accounts, as well as your bank details.
Apple has outlined all the actions the Stolen Device Protection feature covers below:
- Use passwords or passkeys saved in Keychain
- Use payment methods saved in Safari (autofill)
- Turn off Lost Mode
- Erase all content and settings
- Apply for a new Apple Card
- View Apple Card virtual card number
- Take certain Apple Cash and Savings actions in Wallet (for example, Apple Cash or Savings transfers)
- Use your iPhone to set up a new device (for example, Quick Start)
Alongside Stolen Device Protection, Apple is also bringing Apple Music collaborative playlists to iOS 17.3, as well as new wallpaper covers.
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How to turn on Stolen Device Protection
You can turn on Stolen Device Protection in Settings. Simply follow these steps:
- Go to Settings, then tap Face ID & Passcode.
- Enter your device passcode.
- Tap to turn Stolen Device Protection on or off.
However, it’s important to note that if you try turn off Stolen Device Protection when you’re not in a familiar location, a security delay starts before you can turn it off.
This is a protective feature, for an instance when a thief might have stolen the device and turned the security feature off to access sensitive information.
Apple has also urged iPhone users to turn off Stolen Device Protection before you sell, give away, or trade in your device.
