Apple has introduced a new security feature, ‘Stolen Device Protection‘, in its latest iOS 17.3 beta for developers, which adds an extra layer of security for iPhone if it gets lost or stolen.
“As threats to user devices continue to evolve, we work tirelessly to develop powerful new protections for our users and their data. iPhone data encryption has long led the industry, and a thief can’t access data on a stolen iPhone without knowing the user’s passcode,” an Apple spokesperson said in a statement.
“In the rare cases where a thief can observe the user entering the passcode and then steal the device, Stolen Device Protection adds a sophisticated new layer of protection.”
Once the Stolen Device Protection feature is activated on your iPhone, actions like accessing iCloud Keychain passwords, applying for a new Apple Card, turning off Lost Mode, erasing all content and settings, using payment methods saved in Safari, sending people money with Apple Cash, and using iPhone to set up a new device will require biometric authentication such as Face ID or Touch ID when away from familiar locations, like your home or office.
In other words, your iPhone passcode will no longer work as a fallback if you cannot complete biometric verification (Face ID or Touch ID).
In addition, some of the most sensitive operations, like changing your Apple ID password, enabling the recovery key, changing your trusted phone number or contact, adding/removing Face ID or Touch ID, and turning off Find My or Stolen Device protection, will require a one-hour wait followed by an additional biometric authentication when away from familiar locations. However, this delay won’t be applicable if your phone is in a familiar place, such as the home or office.
Apple Brings ‘Stolen Device Protection’ Feature With iOS 17.3 Beta
The new Stolen Device Protection is an opt-in feature that will give iPhone owners more control over their devices and make it difficult for thieves to access their accounts via a stolen device. It also gives iPhone owners time to trace their stolen devices.
“As threats to user devices continue to evolve, we work tirelessly to develop powerful new protections for our users and their data. iPhone data encryption has long led the industry, and a thief can’t access data on a stolen iPhone without knowing the user’s passcode,” an Apple spokesperson said in a statement.
“In the rare cases where a thief can observe the user entering the passcode and then steal the device, Stolen Device Protection adds a sophisticated new layer of protection.”
Once the Stolen Device Protection feature is activated on your iPhone, actions like accessing iCloud Keychain passwords, applying for a new Apple Card, turning off Lost Mode, erasing all content and settings, using payment methods saved in Safari, sending people money with Apple Cash, and using iPhone to set up a new device will require biometric authentication such as Face ID or Touch ID when away from familiar locations, like your home or office.
In other words, your iPhone passcode will no longer work as a fallback if you cannot complete biometric verification (Face ID or Touch ID).
In addition, some of the most sensitive operations, like changing your Apple ID password, enabling the recovery key, changing your trusted phone number or contact, adding/removing Face ID or Touch ID, and turning off Find My or Stolen Device protection, will require a one-hour wait followed by an additional biometric authentication when away from familiar locations. However, this delay won’t be applicable if your phone is in a familiar place, such as the home or office.
How To Enable Stolen Device Protection For iPhone
- Ensure you are running the iOS 17.3 beta on your iPhone.
- Open the Settings app.
- Scroll down and tap Face ID & Passcode (or Touch ID & Passcode).
- Select Stolen Device Protection.