Apple’s recent iOS 17.3 software update introduces a crucial new feature that all iPhone users should be aware of: Stolen Device Protection. This feature aims to address the issue of thieves gaining control of stolen iPhones by obtaining the device’s passcode.
Why Stolen Device Protection Matters
According to a report by The Wall Street Journal, thieves have been known to spy on iPhone users to steal their passcodes, particularly in public places like bars. With the passcode in hand, a thief can gain full control of the device by changing the victim’s Apple ID password and turning off Find My, among other actions. This puts sensitive information stored in iCloud Keychain at risk.
Introducing Stolen Device Protection
Stolen Device Protection is Apple’s solution to this problem. It’s an optional feature designed to add an extra layer of security in case your iPhone is stolen, and the thief has obtained the passcode.
Key Features of Stolen Device Protection
When this feature is enabled, Face ID or Touch ID authentication is strictly required for the following actions, with a passcode fallback no longer available:
- Accessing passwords or passkeys stored in iCloud Keychain
- Applying for a new Apple Card or viewing an Apple Card’s virtual number
- Turning off Lost Mode
- Erasing all content and settings
- Taking certain Apple Cash and Apple Card Savings actions in the Wallet app
- Using payment methods saved in Safari
- Using your iPhone to set up a new device
For especially sensitive actions, such as changing the password of the associated Apple ID account, the feature adds a one-hour security delay on top of biometric authentication.
How to Access and Use Stolen Device Protection
iOS 17.3, which was released in late January, includes the Stolen Device Protection feature as an opt-in option in the Settings app, under Face ID & Passcode.
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