Apple Advises iPhone Users: Avoid Modifying This Setting
A modest understanding of security issues can lead to significant problems, especially with the recent Apple security scare driving users to adjust settings on their iPhones as threats escalate. One new cyber report suggests that the "mobile threat landscape" is intensifying at an alarming rate as cybercriminals focus on mobile devices during their initial attacks. However, before adjusting your phone's settings, it's crucial to comprehend the potential risks.
The "confidential" (1,2) setting on your iPhone is referred to as Lockdown Mode. With an increase in attacks, including headlines implying iPhones may be more vulnerable than Androids, it's not surprising that users might jump to conclusions based on mainstream news articles and enable this setting. But avoid doing so.
Lockdown Mode is likely not suitable for the majority of users, and the potential drawbacks outweigh the advantages. Apple cautions that this is "a highly protective feature designed for a very select group of individuals who may be personally targeted by highly advanced digital threats."
This mode, in line with Google's "Advanced Protection," is specifically intended for politicians, dissidents, journalists, and attorneys engaged in sensitive legal matters. This group falls victim to highly sophisticated spyware attacks, such as those who might receive Apple's famous alerts, alleged compromises of U.S. election staff, and others in similar positions.
Still, it's understandable that users would opt for the most secure protection to safeguard all their data. With headlines like "iPhone fans are just now discovering the little-known setting hidden in Apple's iOS that ensures data security," "iPhone has a secret ‘extreme’ mode that Apple says is so powerful ‘most people’ never need it – it takes seconds to find," and "what is Lockdown mode on iPhone and how it may keep you safe from ‘mercenary spyware’ attacks," it's easy to be swayed. But enable Lockdown Mode at your own risk.
Apple advises that "when Lockdown Mode is enabled, your device will not function as expected. To minimize the potential attack surface that could be exploited by highly targeted mercenary spyware, certain apps, websites, and features will be strictly limited for security. Some functions may even become unavailable." Message attachments will be deleted, web pages might not display correctly, some calls might be blocked, certain photo albums might be inaccessible, some wireless connections might be disabled, and some devices might no longer work. You may be safer, but it's important to remember that unless you're in a highly sensitive position or suspect nation-state-level attacks, this isn't necessary.
Instead, focus on implementing basic security measures to stay secure. Ensure your phone is running the latest version of iOS and install updates promptly. Be cautious when installing apps, even from Apple's App Store, and don't grant permissions that seem excessively permissions for the app's core functions. Exercise caution with public WiFi networks, ensuring that web traffic is encrypted and avoiding sending or receiving sensitive information over such networks. Default to fully encrypted texts and calls whenever possible. Use a reliable VPN when traveling. Enable stolen device protection and limit location tracking. Create a strong PIN and ensure FaceID is enabled.
Additionally, use Apple's Safety Check, available in Settings under Security & Privacy. This tool will display who has access to your data, which apps are accessing your information, devices linked to your account, and which of those devices can access your phone.
By implementing these basic security practices, the vast majority of users can remain safe without resorting to "extreme" measures. Lockdown Mode, as Apple emphasizes, is designed for a very limited group of users who may be targeted by advanced cyber attacks. Use this feature only if you know you're in a vulnerable position.
After reading numerous warnings about spyware threats on iPhones, some users might consider enabling Lockdown Mode, as suggested in a Google warning. However, it's crucial to note that this mode, similar to Google's Advanced Protection, is primarily intended for individuals in sensitive roles, such as politicians and journalists, who are prone to advanced cyber attacks. The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro, like previous models, do not inherently require this mode for enhanced security, given that basic security measures are sufficient for the majority of users. Apple issued a warning stating that enabling Lockdown Mode might limit the functionality of your device and impact various features, such as call blocking and web page display.
