Lock Down Your iPhone: Lockdown Mode, Updates, and Privacy…

Boost Your Security with Lockdown Mode

Lockdown Mode offers extreme protection for a very small number of users who may be targeted by sophisticated digital attacks.

Go to Settings -> Privacy & Security.
Scroll down and tap Lockdown Mode.
Read about what Lockdown Mode does and tap Turn On Lockdown Mode.
Tap Turn On Lockdown Mode again to confirm, then enter your passcode if prompted.
Your iPhone will restart to enable Lockdown Mode.

Good to know

When Lockdown Mode is active, some apps and features will be restricted to reduce the attack surface. You might notice some functionality changes.

Regularly updating your iOS software is one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect your iPhone from known vulnerabilities.

Go to Settings -> General -> Software Update.
If an update is available, tap Download and Install.
Consider enabling automatic updates: Settings -> General -> Software Update -> Automatic Updates, then toggle on Download iOS Updates and Install iOS Updates.

Tip

Keeping your apps updated is just as important! Visit the App Store, tap your profile icon, and check for pending updates.

Take control of your personal data by adjusting these key privacy settings to limit what information apps and services can access.

Limit app tracking: Go to Settings -> Privacy & Security -> Tracking and toggle off Allow Apps to Request to Track.
Review location services: Go to Settings -> Privacy & Security -> Location Services. Review each app's access and set it to While Using the App or Never for those that don't need constant access.
Manage photo access: Go to Settings -> Privacy & Security -> Photos. Check which apps have access and adjust as needed.
Check your Safety Check: Go to Settings -> Privacy & Security -> Safety Check. This tool helps you manage who has access to your information.

Important

Be cautious about granting microphone or camera access to apps unless absolutely necessary for their core function.

Strong authentication is your first line of defence against unauthorised access to your device and accounts.

Use a strong passcode: Go to Settings -> Face ID & Passcode (or Touch ID & Passcode) -> Change Passcode. Opt for a custom alphanumeric code.
Enable Face ID or Touch ID: Ensure these biometric authentication methods are set up for quick and secure unlocking via Settings -> Face ID & Passcode (or Touch ID & Passcode).
Set up two-factor authentication (2FA) for your Apple ID: Go to Settings -> [Your Name] -> Sign-In & Security -> Two-Factor Authentication. Ensure it's switched on.
Review trusted devices for your Apple ID: In Settings -> [Your Name] -> Sign-In & Security, check the list of trusted devices and remove any you no longer recognise or use.

Tip

Consider using a password manager to create and store unique, strong passwords for all your online accounts.

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Written by

Founder, CyberSecurityGuides

Founder of CyberSecurityGuides, writing practical, jargon-free guides that help everyday people recover from and protect against online attacks.

Reviewed by CSG Security Engineers