Safeguard Your iPhone from Theft – How to Use the New Lock Feature

The new lock feature will prompt you to use Face ID and password settings.

Apple introduced a new Lock feature with iOS 17.3, which was released as an update in January. This feature aims to provide better protection for your iPhone if it is stolen.

Specifically, the new feature is intended to be helpful in situations where thieves steal an iPhone while first obtaining its passcode, such as in areas with high rates of theft reported by maverick criminals who often follow someone into a public area before stealing their phone and then accessing the passcode.

With this new security feature, entering passwords now requires using Touch ID/Face ID authentication, and changing important settings like your Apple ID password is protected by an authorization delay. The password entry only changes after the delay period has elapsed. However, the location of the device in known locations such as home or work does not require biometric authentication.

Once the new security feature is enabled, password and passcode usage will be required to remove the Lost mode from your device, erase your iPhone, and use saved payment methods. Only a biometric authentication (Face ID or Touch ID) can succeed with a passcode in known locations.

Additionally, important settings such as changing your Apple ID password, setting up security options for your Apple ID, Face ID/Touch ID settings, and the Find feature require a one-hour authorization delay outside of known locations. Any changes made will only take effect after waiting an hour and then performing another biometric authentication.

The authorization delay is designed to prevent theft from executing important actions by giving time to mark the device as lost and ensure that your Apple account remains secure.

"When your iPhone is in a safe place, you won't need additional steps to use it with your passcode as usual. Known locations typically include places like home, work, and other places where you can safely use your iPhone," Apple states.

To enable the new lock feature on your iPhone from iOS 17.3 or later:

1. Open Settings

2. Select Face ID & Passcode or Touch ID & Passcode

3. Enter your device passcode

4. Enable the Lock feature by selecting the option to Turn On Lock

According to Apple, if you try to remove the lock feature from a stolen device outside of known locations, the authorization delay will start before you can remove it. The lock feature must be removed from the device before selling or giving it away.

Face ID or Touch ID is required for certain functions when the Lock feature is enabled and not in known locations, such as home or work

In addition to Face ID or Touch ID, certain functions are also protected by an authorization delay when the Lock feature is enabled and not in known locations, such as home or work

We hope these tips will help you use your mobile device. You can find more of our tips on our guide pages.