Apple launches feature to protect iPhones against theft – 12/12/2023 – Tech

Apple will add a feature to iPhones to prevent thieves from accessing critical data on the device if they know the user’s password.

This Tuesday (12), the company launched the first beta version of iOS 17.3, which includes a feature called Stolen Device Protection (Stolen Device Protection, in Portuguese).

The update will require the use of Face ID or Touch ID, without the option to use a passcode, to access stored passwords, change Apple ID settings, view payment information, and turn off Find My iPhone.

In some cases, thieves were able to access personal data on iPhones, steal money and disrupt a person’s digital life by knowing the device’s passcode.

For example, a criminal could watch users enter their passcode on their iPhone in a public place before stealing the device.

By requiring the use of Face ID or Touch ID to access critical parts of the iPhone, a thief wouldn’t be able to do as much damage.

In particular, it would be more difficult to erase the device and resell it. Apple hasn’t said when the new feature will be made available to all customers, but the company plans to release iOS 17.3 publicly early next year.

“As threats to users’ devices continue to evolve, we are working tirelessly to develop powerful new protections for our users and their data,” Apple said in a statement.

“In the rare case where a thief can observe the user entering the passcode and then steal the device, Stolen Device Protection adds a sophisticated new layer of protection.”

The enhancement will also add a one-hour period and require a second Face ID or Touch ID verification for the most sensitive tasks, including changing your Apple ID password, turning off the Stolen Device Protection feature, creating a new passcode, access and deactivate Touch ID or Face ID.

However, there will be no delay if users are in a known location, such as their home or work.