Lockdown Mode

Extreme situations call for extreme measures. If you find yourself to be the target of a sophisticated cyberattack, which is highly unlikely, your iPhone has a Lockdown Mode feature that can reduce your vulnerability. This feature was developed and is intended to protect phones from sophisticated and high-level threats. It is worth noting that most users will never need to use this feature

So, exactly what does Lockdown Mode do? It prevents anyone from accessing your personal data by limiting several features, websites, and apps. For instance, enabling Lockdown Mode will block some message attachment types like links and link previews. In addition, you won’t be able to receive FaceTime calls from people you haven’t called before.

To activate Lockdown Mode, go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Lockdown Mode. While it’s unlikely that you’ll need to use this feature, it is worth knowing it’s there.

Lock Your Apple ID with a Physical Key

We all take safety measures to protect our data. Starting with enabling two-factor authentication. This is a great way to secure most any account. But for certain users that need to take extreme caution, Apple is taking things a step further in iOS 16.3 with security keys. These gadgets are an extra barrier to safeguard your Apple ID from security breaches.

If you want to use security keys, all your Apple devices must be on the latest software version. If any of your Apple devices are not up-to-date, you will be notified to sign out of your Apple ID on those devices.

Note: You will no longer be able to use iCloud on Windows.

If you feel like this extra measure is for you, Here’s how to set up Security Keys:

Open the Settings app, and tap your name:

Tap Password & Security:

Tap Security Keys:

Tap Add Security Keys:

Tap Continue:

Insert your physical security key. If you have a near-field communication (NFC) key, hold it lengthwise across the top of your iPhone:

You may be prompted to insert your security key or hold it against the top of your iPhone again:

Enter a name you’ll remember into the name field:

And, just tap Done! Apple currently already requires a second factor besides your password whenever you try to log in: a six-digit code that is normally either texted to you or sent to one of your other Apple devices. However, with a physical key, you will use the key instead of a code or pop-up. No text message. No code.

It’s more secure, you don’t have to worry about accidentally giving away access to your account since a physical key will always be required to log in. Even if someone has gained access to your account password, they won’t be able to get in.

Check out more security tips on the Apple website