Apple's Latest iPhone Feature adds and extra layer of security

• Apple has introduced a new 'Activation Lock' security feature for iPhone.
• New feature  adds an extra layer of protection designed to protect users' data in the event their phone is lost or stolen.
• The feature uses the phone's location as a key factor in its operation.
• The feature is currently being rolled out to members of Apple's beta software program in the iOS 17.3 update.

Recently, Apple, unveiled a new feature that promises to reinforce data security and thwart potential phone and data thieves.

Addressing the issue of phone theft

As highlighted by an investigation by The Wall Street Journal, criminals have been exploiting a loophole in phone security. By observing users enter their passcodes before stealing their phones, they can activate the recovery key or generate a new one if it had already been activated, effectively locking the user out of all their accounts and gaining access to saved payment information.

This security breach can be disastrous for businesses, as it could lead to substantial financial loss and compromise sensitive company data.

Apple's solution: Stolen device protection

To combat this issue, Apple has introduced a new feature named "Stolen Device Protection". The feature uses the phone's location as a key factor in its operation. If you attempt to change passwords or update security settings when your phone is not in a recognised location (like your home or workplace), biometric information will be required. Moreover, changes will only be confirmed once you enter your biometric information a second time, after an hour-long delay.

This hour-long delay does not apply if you are making changes to accounts from your home. This feature adds an extra layer of protection in rare cases where a thief observes the user entering the passcode and then steals the device.

The actions protected by the new system include changing your Apple ID password, enabling or disabling the recovery key, and changing trusted phone numbers or contacts.

Implications for business users

This new feature is particularly beneficial for business users as it provides an added layer of security to protect sensitive business data. Whether you're using your iPhone for communication, managing finances, or storing important company information, this feature will ensure that your data stays protected even if your device falls into the wrong hands.

The feature is currently being rolled out to members of Apple's beta software program in the iOS 17.3 update. As a business manager, it's crucial to stay updated with these advancements and consider incorporating them into your business's data security strategy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while technology brings numerous benefits, it also opens up new avenues for potential threats. It's encouraging to see tech giants like Apple taking steps to address these challenges and provide solutions that help businesses keep their data safe.

Need help securing your businesses data, we can help, start here to book a meeting with our team for a free IT Security audit.