Apple just launched iOS 17.3, the most recent version of its operating system for the iPhone. The update comes with several new features, although the most important is the introduction of the “device protection in case of theft”.
This new feature introduces an extra layer of security to both the iPhone itself and its user’s Apple ID. Thus, those from Cupertino aim to prevent criminals from accessing files stored in iCloud or taking advantage of sensitive data stored on the device – payment information, for example – to defraud victims.
With iOS 17.3, device protection in case of theft will require users to authenticate via Touch ID or Face ID when performing certain actions. This will be mandatory, for example, when you want to see saved passwords. In the United States, biometric data will also be required when you want to apply for a new Apple Card.
But this is not the only reinforced security option that comes to the iPhone with iOS 17.3. Apple has also introduced a “safety hold”. It will impose a one-hour wait on users before changing their Apple ID password or mobile unlock code. Once this waiting time has passed, successful biometric authentication will also be mandatory, either through Touch ID or Face ID.
What Californians intend with these new features is to prevent – or make it difficult, at least – access to sensitive information on stolen iPhones. Especially, when the robbery happens in public places. This way, if a person’s phone is snatched when it is unlocked, or after criminals have studied it to find out its unlock code, their data will not be exposed.
iOS 17.3 arrives with additional security to protect your iPhone in case of theft
The inclusion of these new protection measures for the iPhone was known last December, when Apple introduced the beta of iOS 17.3. The launch of this feature is not coincidental. The theft of iPhones has become tremendously lucrative for criminals in the United States. In February 2023, The Wall Street Journal reported that a group of criminals He had managed to steal more than $300,000 about 40 people who had had their cell phones taken away, mostly in bars.
Of course, extra layers of biometric authentication are always welcome on devices like the iPhone or any other mobile phone. Especially if we consider 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 update to iOS 17.3 is now available for all compatible iPhones. We are talking about the iPhone XS or higher. If you have not yet seen the update on your mobile, you can go to Settings > General > Software update. Tap on Download and installand then in Install Now.
How to activate iPhone protection in case of theft?
The process to enable the new iPhone security features is really simple. Once you have updated to iOS 17.3 you just have to enter Settings > Face ID/Touch ID and passcode. There you will see the new function of Stolen Device Protection, which is disabled by default. You just have to click on the option to activate it, and that’s it.
Please note that it is possible to disable this feature if necessary. For example, if there is a technical failure in the mobile’s front camera 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 recognized by the device as trustworthy; for example, your home or office.