iPhone Owners Warned to Activate Crucial Feature to Protect Against Theft

Technology experts are urging iPhone owners to activate a crucial feature that could help protect their devices if stolen.

This is in response to Met Police findings showing that from 2021-2022, mobile phone thefts increased from 175 per day to 249 per day.

Refurbished tech expert Luis De Los Santos from Back Market emphasises that enabling the iPhone's built-in Stolen Device Protection is a proactive measure every iPhone user should take to safeguard their personal information and increase the chances of recovering their device.

When your phone is stolen and Stolen Device Protection is activated, a Security Delay feature is triggered. This added security measure requires two successful biometric authentications (like Face ID or Touch ID) an hour apart.

This requirement only applies when accessing and making changes to critical settings. If authentication is unsuccessful, this also blocks attempts to change your passcode or Apple ID password.

Here’s how to activate Apple’s Stolen Device Protection:

1. Go to Settings and select Face ID & Passcode.

2. Enter your iPhone's passcode.

3. Select ‘Stolen Device Protection’ and turn it on.

Extra features of Stolen Device Protection

• Familiar Locations: The additional security steps are enforced when your iPhone is in unfamiliar locations. Familiar locations are typically your home, workplace, and other places where you frequently use your device.

• Always On Option: You can set the feature to always require the additional security measures regardless of location.

Apple recommends turning this feature off before selling, trading, or gifting your iPhone. This is because keeping the feature enabled could potentially lock the new user out of the phone or Apple ID settings, causing frustration and complications during the initial setup.

“With the increasing frequency of smartphone thefts, it's essential for users to be aware of the security features available on their devices,” said Luis. “The Stolen Device Protection feature is a game-changer, offering a robust defence against unauthorised access and aiding in the recovery process.”

Top anti-theft phone safety tips

In addition to activating the Stolen Device Protection feature on the iPhone, the following top security tips can be used for Apple and Android devices:

1. Enable Find My iPhone: This feature allows you to track, lock, and erase your iPhone remotely if it gets lost or stolen. Android users can use Google’s Find My Device.

2. Use a strong passcode: To enhance security, opt for a passcode with more digits and complexity. If there is an option for six digits instead of four, use it. Avoid simple passcodes like '1234' or '0000'. 

3. Avoid using your iPhone in public places: Be cautious when using your phone in busy areas where thieves are more likely to strike. Try to limit phone use in such settings to necessary tasks only.

4. Keep your iPhone securely stored: When not in use, keep your phone in a secure pocket or bag, preferably with a zipper or button closure, to make it less accessible to potential thieves and pickpockets.

5. Be aware of motorcyclists/cyclists: Criminals often use bikes or motorcycles to snatch people's phones in public. To be extra safe when using your phone in public, make quick checks to avoid being distracted, use headphones for calls, and keep your phone close to your body.

According to a 2017 study by researchers at Nankai University and other institutions who analysed leaked passwords, 1234 is the most common four-digit PIN combination.

These PINs are often chosen for their simplicity and ease of memorisation, especially when the current year is chosen. However, their predictability makes them vulnerable to guessing attacks. To enhance security, it is advisable to select less common and more random combinations.

Luis De Los Santos from Back Market concluded: “By following these expert tips, smartphone owners can significantly reduce the risk of theft and enhance the security of their devices.”