Apple just launched iOS 17.3, the latest version of the iPhone operating system. The update includes several new features, but the most important is the introduction “device protection in case of theft”.
This new feature provides an additional layer of security for both the iPhone itself and the user’s Apple ID. As such, Cupertino residents are looking to prevent criminals from accessing files stored on iCloud or using sensitive data stored on the device (such as payment information) to defraud victims.
iOS 17.3 protects your device in case of theft will require users to authenticate via Touch ID or Face ID when performing certain actions. This will be required, for example, if you want to see saved passwords. In the US, biometrics will also be required when you apply for a new Apple Card.
But this isn’t the only enhanced security option available on iPhones running iOS 17.3. Apple also introduced “safety hold”. Users will have to wait one hour before changing their Apple ID password or mobile phone unlock code. After this timeout, successful biometric authentication with either Touch ID or Face ID will also be required.
With these new features, Californians intend to prevent, or at least make it more difficult to access, sensitive information on stolen iPhones. Especially, when a robbery occurs in public places. This way, if a person’s phone is stolen while it’s unlocked, or after criminals have examined it to find out the unlock code, their data won’t be exposed.
iOS 17.3 comes with extra security to protect your iPhone in case of theft
The inclusion of these new protections for iPhone was announced last December when Apple introduced the beta version of iOS 17.3. The launch of this function is not accidental. iPhone theft has become extremely lucrative for criminals in the United States. In February 2023 Wall Street Magazine reported that a group of criminals He managed to steal more than $300,000. about 40 people whose mobile phones were taken away, mostly in bars.
Of course, additional layers of biometric authentication are always welcome on devices like the iPhone or any other mobile phone. Especially considering that we store more and more sensitive information on these devices. From photos, videos and personal documents to emails, passwords, bank and credit card details.
The iOS 17.3 update is now available for all compatible iPhones. We are talking about iPhone XS or higher. If you have not yet seen the update on your mobile phone, you can go to Settings > General > Software Update.. Click on Download and installand then in Install now.
How to activate iPhone protection in case of theft?
The process of enabling new iPhone security features is really simple. After updating to iOS 17.3, you just need to enter Settings > Face ID/Touch ID & Password.. There you will see a new feature Stolen Device Protection, which is disabled by default. You just need to click on the option to activate it and that’s it.
Please note that this feature can be disabled if necessary. For example, if there is a technical failure in the front camera of the mobile phone or in the fingerprint sensor. To do this you can use the code from your iPhone, although you will have to be in a location that the device recognizes as trustworthy; for example, your home or office.
Source: Hiper Textual
I’m Ben Stock, a highly experienced and passionate journalist with a career in the news industry spanning more than 10 years. I specialize in writing content for websites, including researching and interviewing sources to produce engaging articles. My current role is as an author at Gadget Onus, where I mainly cover the mobile section.
