Apple’s upcoming iOS update, iOS 17.3, is set to introduce a new feature called Stolen Device Protection, aimed at preventing thieves from taking advantage of stolen iPhones. In recent times, thieves have targeted iPhone users, stealing their devices and using the passcode to change the Apple ID password, locking the user out of signed-in devices and taking control of the account.
To combat this issue, Stolen Device Protection will implement a security delay whenever the device is outside trusted locations. This delay will require users to wait for an hour and authenticate biometrics twice before making changes to critical portions of their Apple ID or device settings. With this feature active, users will no longer be able to rely on the passcode fallback option and will need to authenticate their biometrics for various actions.
Actions such as using passwords or passkeys saved in Apple Passwords, applying for a new Apple Card, or erasing all content and settings will now require biometric authentication. It’s worth noting that certain operations still require a passcode, such as Apple Pay authentication. However, users can rely on their bank’s fraud protection to recover funds if an unauthorized transaction occurs.
The implementation of the security delay will impact actions like changing the Apple ID password, updating account security settings, changing the iPhone passcode, or adding/removing Face ID or Touch ID. Thieves will have no choice but to authenticate biometrics, agree to a one-hour delay, and authenticate biometrics again after the hour before completing any of these actions. The delay, however, will not be applicable in trusted locations like home or work.
Stolen Device Protection aims to provide victims with enough time to discover their missing device, log into their Apple ID, and activate Lost Mode, effectively preventing the thief from accessing the device or making changes without biometrics. The one-hour delay also makes it highly unlikely for thieves to successfully change Apple ID passwords as they would need to wait an additional hour to complete the change after obtaining the passcode.
Overall, Stolen Device Protection seeks to enhance security and give iPhone users greater control over their stolen devices, making it difficult for thieves to gain unauthorized access or alter settings. With this new feature, Apple is taking a proactive approach to addressing the issue of stolen iPhones and providing users with peace of mind.
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