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If you’re planning to swap out your current phone for the latest iPhone 17, iPhone Air, or iPhone 17 Pro, remember to disable this setting beforehand. Doing so can save you a full hour at the Apple Store.
Disable the Stolen Device Protection feature—carefully
Late in 2023, Apple introduced the Stolen Device Protection feature in response to concerns raised by a Wall Street Journal article highlighting common iPhone theft tactics. These tactics often involved thieves who observed users entering their passcodes in public places like bars. After stealing the device, they would quickly change the associated Apple ID password using that passcode.
With Stolen Device Protection active, Apple enforces a one-hour delay before sensitive account modifications, such as disabling Find My, can be made, even if biometric authentication is used. Notably, this delay applies only in public settings, as Apple detects the location—usually home or workplace—and adjusts accordingly.
Therefore, if you’re preparing to trade in your iPhone, it’s wise to disable Stolen Device Protection ahead of time, since you’ll need to turn off Find My and log out of iCloud during the process. Keep in mind, your device is more vulnerable in transit without this security feature active.
Steps to disable Stolen Device Protection
- Open Settings, then select Face ID & Passcode.
- Enter your device passcode.
- Tap on Stolen Device Protection and switch it off.
Looking to upgrade to the iPhone 17 or iPhone Air? Be sure to visit 9to5Mac’s official trade-in partner for an estimate of your current device’s value.
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