LONDON (AP) – Imagine being at a packed bar and realizing that your iPhone has been stolen after a thief observes you entering your passcode. The feeling of dread sets in as you realize that not only is your phone gone, but also your precious photos, important files, and access to your banking apps. To address this issue, Apple has rolled out an iOS update with a feature called Stolen Device Protection that makes it harder for thieves to access critical applications and settings. It is highly recommended for users to enable this feature as soon as possible. Here’s a guide on how to activate this security feature and why it is crucial: SHOULD I ENABLE STOLEN DEVICE PROTECTION? iPhone and iPad software updates now include a crucial feature to deter phone theft for the purpose of reselling or gaining access to Apple IDs and other valuable accounts. Stolen Device Protection is a new addition to the latest iOS update, version 17.3. Apple claims that this feature, which is located in the iPhone’s settings, provides an additional layer of security for users. It addresses a growing threat that thieves have exploited, which involves gaining access to victims’ Apple accounts, deleting their iCloud files and photos, and accessing their bank accounts through the passwords stored in the Keychain password manager. Apple has introduced this feature as phone theft incidents continue to increase. Stories of stolen phones are prevalent in Reddit communities and news articles from different cities, with pick-pocketing and various tactics being commonly reported by authorities. Last year, The Wall Street Journal uncovered how criminals were obtaining personal information by observing individuals typing in their IDs.  HOW DOES THE STOLEN DEVICE PROTECTION WORK? Stolen Device Protection keeps track of the user’s “known locations,” such as home or work, and introduces additional security measures if the device is being used elsewhere. It also reduces reliance on passcodes, which can be stolen through means such as shoulder surfing or coercion, by favoring “biometric” features like Face ID or Touch ID, which are harder to replicate. If a thief attempts to erase the phone’s contents and settings for resale, the Stolen Device Protection feature will require Face ID or Touch ID verification to confirm ownership. This is the only way, as the new feature does not allow the use of a passcode or any other backup method. Other activities, such as using passwords stored in Keychain or Safari, turning off Lost Mode, applying for an Apple Card, or using an iPhone to set up a new device, can also trigger additional security measures if the device is in an unknown location. There is an additional layer of protection designed to reduce the likelihood of unauthorized access to crucial security settings. For instance, if someone attempts to log out of the Apple ID account, change the passcode, or reset the phone from an unfamiliar location, they will need to authenticate using Face ID or Touch ID, wait an hour, and then repeat the face or fingerprint scan. Changing the Apple ID password, resetting the Apple ID security settings, adding or removing Face or Touch ID, and turning off Find My device or Stolen Device Protection can also prompt these measures to prevent a thief from taking drastic steps to establish the device as lost and secure the Apple account. “Once your iPhone is in a familiar location, this will no longer be necessary, and you can use your passcode as usual,” stated the company. HOW TO ACTIVATE STOLEN DEVICE PROTECTION? It’s a straightforward process if you know where to look. Firstly, ensure that your iPhone or iPad is updated with the latest iOS updates. Then, navigate to your settings, scroll down to “Face ID & Passcode” or “Touch ID & Passcode,” and enter your passcode. Further down the menu, you will find Stolen Device Protection. Depending on your iPhone model, you may need to toggle it on or off. Make sure that you have enabled two-factor authentication and Find My Device on your Apple ID account, or the feature will not be available. WHAT DEVICES DOES THIS WORK FOR? The Stolen Device Protection feature is compatible with iPhone XS and newer models, including the second and third generation SEs.
