Are you worried about the security of your iPhone? It's crucial to stay vigilant. Apple offers Lockdown Mode, introduced in iOS 16, to reduce potential attack vectors. However, this optional, extreme protection is designed for people facing highly sophisticated targeted cyberattacks—not as a routine security setting for everyone. See Apple's overview of Lockdown Mode.
What is Lockdown Mode?
Lockdown Mode is an advanced security feature on iPhones that reduces the attack surface of your device. It blocks most message attachment types, with exceptions for certain images, video and audio, and disables features such as links and link previews. Incoming FaceTime calls are blocked unless you have called that person or contact within the past 30 days. These restrictions reduce opportunities for targeted spyware attacks, but some apps, websites and features will work differently or become unavailable. Apple explains the protections and limitations.
How to Enable Lockdown Mode
Update your iPhone to the latest software available for it before turning on Lockdown Mode. Then follow Apple's activation instructions:
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap Privacy & Security.
- Scroll down, tap Lockdown Mode, then tap Turn On Lockdown Mode.
- Tap Turn On Lockdown Mode again to confirm.
- Tap Turn On & Restart, then enter your device passcode.
Who Should Use Lockdown Mode?
Consider Lockdown Mode if you believe you may be personally targeted by a highly sophisticated cyberattack, such as mercenary spyware. Your individual risk matters more than your job title. Apple says most people are never targeted by attacks of this nature, and the feature significantly limits everyday functionality. We recommend weighing those trade-offs rather than enabling it simply for general peace of mind. See Apple's guidance on who should use Lockdown Mode.
Additional Security Tips
- Always update your software: Download software updates as soon as they are released.
- Be cautious with links: Avoid clicking links from unknown senders.
- Enable biometric authentication: Use Face ID or Touch ID wherever possible.
- Avoid unknown Wi-Fi networks: Public networks can be exploited by hackers. The NSA's wireless-security guidance recommends using a personal or corporate mobile hotspot instead of public Wi-Fi.
- Consider turning off Bluetooth when not in use: This can reduce exposure to Bluetooth-based attacks, but it is not a guarantee against hacking. To disable Bluetooth completely, go to Settings > Bluetooth and turn it off; the Control Center button does not fully disable it. See Apple's explanation of Bluetooth and Control Center.
- Monitor app permissions: Check which apps have access to system privileges.
Stay #CyberSmart and protect your personal information with these easy-to-implement security measures.