Apple's new 'Stolen Device Protection' spruces up iPhone security, curbing thieves' control even after cracking the code

When this feature is activated, and the phone is in an unrecognized location, the device will necessitate both the password and facial recognition, or FaceID, to execute "sensitive actions," CNBC reports.

These sensitive actions could include displaying stored passwords or performing a phone wipe, essentially erasing data or resetting it to factory settings. A thief who succeeds in unlocking a stolen device with a code will be unable to access these "sensitive" settings or alter them. Moreover, without FaceID authentication, changing the password or disabling the FaceID protection will not be immediately feasible. Instead, a unique one-hour delay will be implemented, after which facial recognition will again be required.

This new feature is a rebuttal to a scam tactic uncovered by "The Wall Street Journal." In this con, the perpetrators either befriend or spy on their victims and somehow obtain their phone password, for instance, by asking to view photos. The thief then pilfers the phone and utilizes the stolen password to disarm any protection setup. Consequently, the stolen iPhone remains functional, inherently boosting its value compared to a locked device typically sold for parts.

(Note: CNBV mentions that on turning on an iPhone, almost every user must input a four or six-digit password code. All privacy settings and anti-theft protections have relied on this unique code, indicating that anyone possessing this password could completely hijack the device. Apple is touting the SDP mode as an "advanced new layer of security." This feature is only available to users testing the latest iOS: 17.3, although the company plans to roll out this update to a broader customer base in the coming weeks.