Apple Launches iOS 17.3 and iPadOS 17.3 Updates with Stolen Device Protection and Enhanced Security Measures

In an important step towards enhancing security and privacy, Apple launched iOS 17.3 and iPadOS 17.3 updates, introducing comprehensive security fixes and a new feature to protect stolen devices. These updates indicate Apple’s continued commitment to providing a safe and protected user experience for its users.

Security updates

The iOS 17.3 and iPadOS 17.3 updates include fixes for several security vulnerabilities in various components of the system, such as Apple’s CoreCrypto neural engine and the kernel. These reforms address problems; Such as the ability to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges, and improve security against decryption attacks. Enhancing security in these essential components helps protect devices from cyberattacks and unauthorized access.

Stolen device protection feature

“Stolen Device Protection” for iPhone is a feature that adds an extra layer of security when your device is away from familiar locations such as home or work. This feature helps protect your accounts and personal information if your iPhone is stolen. When “Stolen Device Protection” is activated Some actions require additional security requirements when your iPhone is away from familiar locations. This helps prevent someone who has stolen your device and knows your passcode from making critical changes to your account or device.

Biometric authentication with face or fingerprint

Some actions, such as accessing saved passwords and credit cards, require a single biometric authentication with Face ID or Touch ID without a passcode replacement.

Safety delay

Some security measures, like changing your Apple ID password, require you to wait an hour, then perform a second authentication with your face or fingerprint.

When your iPhone is in a familiar location, these additional steps are not required, and you can use your device passcode as usual. Stolen Device Protection is available with iOS 17.3 and must be activated before your device is lost or stolen.

To turn Stolen Device Protection on or off, you must use Apple ID two-factor authentication and set up or activate a device passcode, face or fingerprint, Find My Device, and Important Locations on your iPhone.

You can activate “Stolen Device Protection” in Settings through these steps:

1- Go to Settings, then click on Face ID and Passcode.

2- Enter the device passcode.

3- Click to activate or deactivate “Stolen Device Protection”.

If you try to turn off Stolen Device Protection when you’re not in a familiar location, a security delay starts before you can turn it off. Stolen Protection must be turned off before selling, giving away or exchanging an iPhone.

The “Stolen Device Protection” feature in iOS 17.3 and iPadOS 17.3 updates represents a major step towards enhancing security on Apple devices. By providing innovative solutions to increasing security challenges, Apple continues to assert its leadership in protecting the privacy and security of its users. All Apple device users are advised to download and install these updates to ensure the best possible levels of protection.

Through these updates, Apple demonstrates its commitment to providing a safe and comfortable user experience, while preserving users’ privacy and the security of their data. This step represents an important development in the field of technological security, which enhances confidence among users of Apple devices, and emphasizes the importance of maintaining data security and privacy in the advanced world of technology.