Apple has released iOS 17.3, a highly anticipated update, as it introduces the “anti-theft” on iPhone. This function, whose actual name is “Protection for stolen devices“, better protects the device and the Apple ID account in the event of theft. The iPhones eligible to support this update are those released by Xr and SE (2nd generation) forward. To update your smartphone’s operating system, simply access the settings, then the “General” section and finally press “Update software”.
How “anti-theft” works on the iPhone
The update and introduction of the “Stolen device protection” function increases security on the iPhone because it requires the use of facial recognition (Face ID) or fingerprints (Touch ID) without the possibility of using the code to execute particularly delicate actions when the device is located away from familiar positions.
Among the blocked actions are access to passkeys stored in iCloud, purchasing a new Apple Card, and the ability to perform transactions with Apple Pay.
This means that even in the event of theft, the user’s personal data is safe and does not risk being used illicitly by potential thieves. Apple also introduced “safety delay” which forces you to wait an hour and a new biometric authentication before allowing the execution of sensitive operations such as adding or deactivating a Face ID or a Touch ID, disabling the “Find me” function or the “Stolen device protection”.
How to activate “anti-theft” on iPhone
To activate “Stolen device protection” you need to go to the device settings, activate Two-factor authentication for Apple ID, set up or activate: a device passcode, Face ID or Touch ID, Find My, and Relevant Locations. At this point you can open the settings and the “Face ID and code” section. Enter the device code and finally activate or deactivate “Stolen device protection”.
If a user tries to disable “Stolen Device Protection” when they are in a new location, they will have to wait for the device to turn off before they can do so. end of countdown imposed by the “safety delay”. It is very important – Apple recalled in the guide it created on the subject – to deactivate all these functions before selling, giving away or exchanging your iPhone, otherwise whoever gets the device will have difficulty using it.