MILLIONS of iPhones are hiding a powerful “extreme protection” mode built to block hackers.
Apple says the little-known setting “hardens your iPhone from a cyberattack” – and it’s totally free to use.
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The feature is called Lockdown Mode and was added in 2022 as part of the iOS 16 update.
It’s so powerful that even Apple admits that “most people” will never need it.
Apple explains: “Lockdown Mode is optional and should be used only if you believe you might be targeted by a highly sophisticated cyberattack.
“Such as by a private company developing state-sponsored mercenary spyware.
“Most people are never targeted by attacks of this nature.”
Apple says that your iPhone won’t function like it normally does if you turn Lockdown Mode on.
But it’s a worthwhile trade-off if you’re targeted by what Apple describes as “extremely rare and highly sophisticated cyber attacks”.
WHAT IS LOCKDOWN MODE?
Lockdown Mode makes sweeping changes to how your device works.
For instance, most message attachment types will be blocked.
And features like links and link previews in texts won’t work either.
Some websites won’t load properly, and FaceTime calls are blocked from anyone that you haven’t previously called.
Your iPhone won’t automatically join “non-secure” Wi-Fi networks, and location information will be scrubbed from photos that you share.
Apple says Lockdown Mode affects the following features:
- Messages
- Web browsing
- FaceTime
- Apple services
- Photos
- Device connections
- Wireless connectivity
- Configuration profiles
LOCKDOWN MODE WORKS ON MAC TOO!
Here’s how to do it…
Just go to the Apple menu then choose System Settings.
Now select Privacy & Security, scroll down and choose Lockdown Mode.
Now tap Turn On > Turn On Lockdown Mode.
Enter your password if you’re prompted to, then choose Turn On & Restart.
Picture Credit: Apple
These features will also vanish:
- SharePlay
- Shared Albums
- FaceTime Live Photos
- FaceTime Continuity Handoff
For most people, keeping Lockdown Mode on would ruin the iPhone experience.
But if you’re a person that might be specifically by cyberattacks, it could save you from a devastating hack.
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HOW TO TURN LOCKDOWN MODE ON
First, make sure that you’ve updated your iPhone.
Just go to Settings > General > Software Update and install any available downloads.
Then go into Settings > Privacy & Security > Lockdown Mode.
You can then tap Turn On Lockdown Mode – and then you’ll be prompted to confirm it.
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Then select Tap Turn On & Restart, enter your device passcode, and wait for your iPhone to switch back on in Lockdown Mode.
You can turn Lockdown Mode off by going into the same Settings panel.
