Its operating system has barely been updated (with iOS 17.2), when Apple is already revealing the functions that it will deploy in the coming weeks. It is in the beta version of iOS 17.3, intended exclusively for developers at the moment, where the American company is deploying, according to the Wall Street Journal, a new option: “Stolen Device Protection”, in French).
When available, the option can be activated from the settings of your iOS device. From then on, the phone will ask the user for a facial analysis (Face ID) or a digital analysis (Touch ID) if they are far from places referenced as “home” and “work” in Apple Maps, the mapping application. Apple’s operating system.
With this new protection system, a one-hour delay will take effect if the thief wants to change the Apple ID password – which can be done using the mobile unlock code – and if the device is not in a registered location by the user.
After an hour of waiting, the iPhone will request a new biometric check, either facial or digital, to make any sensitive modifications (for example, an Apple ID password reset). The same precautions will be taken to access iCloud content (images, music, files) or to access settings considered sensitive.
Common
The feature aims to delay the thief in his actions and allow the victim to report the theft of their device. Phone theft has become common around the world, according to a Wall Street Journal report published last February.
The thieves’ modus operandi is simple: spy on iPhone owners in public places; Ask them by typing the device password and finally steal the phone.
Once out of range, pickpockets disable “Find My,” the Apple app that allows users to locate their iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, and AirPods devices. They then use and set up a recovery key to return the phone to its “factory out” stage and resell it at full price.
“Device Theft Protection” should allow Apple and its users to fight this scourge. It could be available in early 2024.
Source: BFM TV
