How to Shield Your iPhone/iPad from Password Breaches

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If you own an iPhone or iPad, you likely appreciate the security features these devices offer. However, even the most secure devices have vulnerabilities, especially if someone knows your passcode. If a thief gains access to your device, they could exploit this knowledge to access sensitive information, such as:

Your passwords saved in Keychain
Your contacts and emails
The ability to change your Apple ID password without knowing the old one
A Recovery Key that could lock you out of your account permanently

To protect yourself, it’s essential to take steps before any theft occurs. Here’s how you can safeguard your device:

1. Be Cautious with Your Apple ID Password

Avoid storing your Apple ID password in Keychain. Instead, create a complex yet memorable password, like "ItrustApple100%." Repeat this approach for other important passwords, such as those for banking or email accounts.

2. Use Biometric Security

Instead of relying solely on a passcode, enable Face ID or Touch ID. This will decrease the chances of someone easily gaining access by observing you unlock your device.

3. Set Up a SIM PIN

If your device uses a physical SIM card, navigate to your cellular or mobile settings and set a SIM PIN. This adds an extra layer of security.

4. Enable a Recovery Key

Consider setting a Recovery Key for your Apple ID. This provides an additional safeguard against unauthorized access.

5. Activate Stolen Device Protection

You can toggle Stolen Device Protection in the Settings under Face ID & Passcode (or Touch ID & Passcode for iPhone SE 2 or 3 users). With this feature activated, changes to your account settings will require Face or Touch ID if you’re outside familiar places.

6. Familiar Locations

Your device learns which locations you visit frequently and adjusts the security protocols accordingly. In familiar locations, you only need your passcode to make changes. However, in unfamiliar areas, additional biometric confirmation will be necessary.

7. Understanding Important Restrictions

In areas where you aren’t recognized, you will need biometric identification to:

Access iCloud Keychain passwords
Make changes to your Apple Card
Erase all settings and content
Reset all settings
Disable Lost Mode
Use payment methods saved in Safari

Additionally, to change your Apple ID password or enable the Recovery Key, you’ll need biometric confirmation and a one-hour waiting period. To avoid missing critical changes, set a timer for 61 minutes!

8. Use Screen Time for Extra Security

If a thief knows your passcode, using Screen Time settings can help limit their access to your account. Here’s how to set up Screen Time with a different passcode:

Open Settings and go to Screen Time.
Turn on Screen Time.
Choose “Use Screen Time Passcode” and create a unique passcode.
Enter someone else’s Apple ID for additional security.
Enable Content & Privacy Restrictions.
For Passcode Changes and Account Changes, set both to “Don’t Allow.”

This will keep your account information secure. Without this Screen Time passcode, no one can access your Apple ID or make password changes.

9. Prepare for Selling or Leasing Your Device

If you intend to sell your iPhone or return it to a leasing company, remember to disable Stolen Device Protection and any Screen Time restrictions before turning off Find My iPhone. This may involve some waiting, but it’s important because using different means to remove your device from your account can lead to a 28-day delay before it can be reactivated.

Conclusion

Taking these precautions can significantly enhance the security of your iPhone or iPad. Remember, a little preparation can go a long way in protecting your information. For more information on Apple security features and options, check out Apple Support’s dedicated pages.