The new developer beta version of iOS 17.3 includes a “Stolen Device Protection” feature that offers additional security in the event of an iPhone being stolen.
The new feature, called “Stolen Device Protection,” offers an extra layer of security, making it harder for someone else to use your passcode (which may have been learned by someone else) for malicious actions outside of your home or workplace.
If the device is found in an area that is not connected to the iPhone owner, this feature will require facial recognition via Apple's FaceID technology, in addition to the passcode, for sensitive actions such as viewing saved codes or wiping the phone. So, if someone has stolen the phone and knows the passcode, they will not be able to unlock the iPhone because they will also need FaceID. This protects against possible theft or unwanted access attempts. In addition, any attempt to change the user's Apple ID password or remove FaceID will require a mandatory one-hour delay, after which FaceID confirmation will be requested again.
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This update comes after the discovery of a scam in which attackers obtain their victim's passcode through various methods and then use that passcode to disable security features on the stolen iPhone.
With the “Stolen Device Protection” feature, Apple adds an extra layer of protection by requiring the use of FaceID facial recognition, in addition to the passcode.
Users can enable this feature via the Face ID and Passcode > Stolen Device Protection in the latest developer beta of iOS 17.3. The company confirms that the feature will be available to all iPhone users in the coming weeks with the release of iOS 17.3.
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According to an Apple spokesperson, this addition responds to the evolving threats users face, offering an advanced level of protection in cases of theft and loss of the device.
Information source: https://www.cnbc.com/world
