Apple has sent a critical security alert to millions of iPhone users across the UK, urging immediate action to activate a potentially life-saving security feature. The warning comes in response to a growing threat from sophisticated spyware attacks targeting high-profile individuals.
The tech giant is specifically directing users to enable 'Stolen Device Protection', a powerful security layer introduced in iOS 17.3. This feature provides crucial protection against a frighteningly common attack method where thieves watch their victims enter passcodes in public spaces before stealing their devices.
Why This Protection Is Essential
Without this feature enabled, a thief with your passcode can gain full access to your digital life. They can change your Apple ID password, lock you out of your accounts, access your private photos and messages, and even drain your financial accounts linked to Apple Pay.
Stolen Device Protection changes everything by introducing additional security steps for sensitive actions when your phone is away from familiar locations like your home or workplace.
How To Enable This Critical Protection
Activating this vital security measure takes just moments:
- Open your Settings app
- Scroll down and tap Face ID & Passcode
- Enter your passcode
- Scroll down to find Stolen Device Protection
- Toggle the feature to ON
- Ensure 'Always require a security delay' is activated for maximum protection
Who Is Most At Risk?
While all iPhone users should enable this protection immediately, Apple specifically notes that journalists, activists, diplomats, and politicians face particularly high risks from these targeted digital attacks. These sophisticated operations often use mercenary spyware that can infiltrate devices without any user interaction.
Apple's security team has detected multiple attempts to compromise phones using these methods, prompting their unusual public warning. The company emphasizes that while these attacks are targeted rather than widespread, the consequences for victims can be devastating.
The warning serves as a stark reminder that in our increasingly digital world, basic security measures are no longer optional. Enabling Stolen Device Protection represents one of the simplest yet most effective steps iPhone users can take to safeguard their personal information, financial assets, and digital privacy from determined attackers.
