Protect your iPhone: How to turn on stolen device protection
As Kenyans continue their love affair with iPhones, protecting these prized possessions becomes increasingly important.
With the global incidence of mobile device theft on the rise, securing personal data has become a top priority for smartphone users. In response to this concern, Apple has introduced Stolen Device Protection, a feature designed to enhance security measures for iPhones in the event of theft or loss.
According to a 2018 report by Kaspersky Lab, more than 23,000 mobile devices are reported lost or stolen worldwide every month, often resulting in data breaches and privacy violations.
To combat this threat, Apple has integrated Stolen Device Protection into iOS 17.3 and later versions, allowing users to secure their iPhones against unauthorised access and data theft.
Enabling Stolen Device Protection is a simple process that requires users to use two-factor authentication for their Apple ID and configure certain settings on their devices.
This includes setting up a device passcode, enabling Face ID or Touch ID biometric authentication, and enabling Significant Locations in Location Services.
In addition, users must ensure that Find My iPhone is turned on, as Stolen Device Protection cannot be turned off while this feature is active.
To enable Stolen Device Protection, users can follow these steps
1. Navigate to Settings and tap Face ID & Passcode.
2. Enter the device passcode when prompted.
3. Locate the Stolen Device Protection option and turn it on or off as desired.
For added security, users can choose to enforce additional measures by selecting Always under Require Security Delay.
This setting ensures that stringent security protocols remain in place regardless of the device’s location, minimising the risk of unauthorised access.
In the event of theft or loss, Stolen Device Protection enforces additional security requirements when iPhone is away from familiar locations, such as home or work.
These measures include biometric authentication for certain actions and a security delay for critical operations such as changing the Apple ID password.
By implementing these safeguards, Stolen Device Protection aims to thwart potential thieves and protect user data.
Ultimately, Stolen Device Protection is a significant step forward in strengthening iPhone security and mitigating the risks associated with theft or loss.
As users take advantage of this feature, they can rest assured that their personal information will remain safe, even in the face of adversity.