Apple released iOS 17.3 earlier this month, and it added the Stolen Device Protection feature. This new security update is one of the best for the iPhone and aims to prevent professional passcode thieves from accessing your iPhone and compromising your sensitive information.
To get the Stolen Device Protection feature, make sure to update to iOS 17.3 by going to Settings > General > Software Update and following the directions. Once you have updated to iOS 17.3, enable the feature by going to Settings > Face ID & Passcode and scrolling to Stolen Device Protection, then tap on Turn On Protection.
With the Stolen Device Protection feature enabled, you will need to verify your identity using Face ID or Touch ID when performing certain sensitive tasks on your iPhone, such as applying for a new Apple Card, erasing content and settings, taking actions in Wallet, using payment methods saved in Safari, and setting up a new device.
One of the main benefits of the Stolen Device Protection feature is that there is a one-hour delay before any changes can be made to your Apple ID password, iPhone passcode, Face ID, Find My app, and Stolen Device Protection feature. This delay gives victims of iPhone theft time to realize their phone is missing and take action.
In iOS 17.4, Apple will reportedly allow users to have the Stolen Device Protection feature enabled at all times. As of now, the feature can be set to work only when you are away from a familiar location, such as home or the office. However, the new setting in iOS 17.4 will offer users the option to enable the protection feature at all times.
While waiting an hour to make certain changes might seem inconvenient, it’s a small price to pay for added security. Apple hopes that this feature will prevent potential theft or unauthorized access to personal and financial information.
Keep an eye out for iOS 17.4, which could be released on Monday, March 4th. This update will expand the protection offered by the Stolen Device Protection feature and will be beneficial for users looking to safeguard their data on their iPhone.
