Apple is still betting big on security for its iPhone with iOS 17.3 which is set for release in the New Year, sometime in mid-January. The software update features the much-awaited Stolen Device Protection.
Apple touts this feature can help iPhone owners to get their device back as thieves will not be able to break into it. The Stolen Device Protection is actually a roadblock for thieves as this feature puts in place new restrictions on the password.
And the password is more than characters. Apple says accessing saved passwords required Face ID, changing sensitive settings like the user’s Apple ID password is protected by a security delay, and no delay is required when the device is at familiar location, like home and work.
iOS 17.3 Secures User Privacy and Data
This software upgrade boosts the user with holistic security, in terms of privacy and data protection. iOS 17.3 prompts users to create complex passwords, that cannot be hacked into, and protect themselves (digitally) proactively.
The Touch ID authentication or Face ID is required for viewing passkeys and deleting content etc. And this makes it very difficult for the device’s thief to break into. Changing password of the Apple ID account is impossible as iOS 17.3 has a security delay feature. This may have the thief biting their nails and knocking their heads against the wall to break into!
And if the iPhone establishes that it is in an unfamiliar location, the device will need authentication by biometrics, that is Face ID or Touch ID to get access followed by a one-hour wait. I don’t think thieves or iPhone-pickers like pickpocketers have that luxury of time to wait!
Apple’s iOS 17.3 Introduces Enhanced Stolen Device Protection to Secure Financial and Account Features
The latest software upgrade by Apple urges iPhone owners to have really strong passwords. But reports highlight thieves stealing iPhones after recording the device owners entering their passwords or passcodes. As such, the thief is able to unlock nearly everything on the phone.
But Apple’s Stole Device Protection feature in iOS 17.3 prevents this by locking money and account-related features with Face ID and Touch ID. It doesn’t utilize passcodes.