It’s 2022 and we’re all too familiar with the word “Lockdown” thanks to the raging pandemic. You might be surprised to see a lock feature coming to the iPhone, but it makes a lot of sense once you get to know the benefits it offers. The New Lockdown Mode Has Been Announced And Rolled Out In The Latest iOS 16 Beta 3 release, and it allows users to push their security to the limit.
Before we get ahead of things, the new iPhone Lockdown is an opt-in feature, which allows users to improve and significantly increase their security. It is not recommended by the vast majority to use the feature, and it is unlikely that common people will ever consider enabling this feature.
What is iPhone Lock Mode?
Apple has announced a new Lockdown Mode feature for iPhone users in the latest iOS 16 Beta 3 software version. Apple says the new feature is intended to be used by those who could be the target of highly sophisticated digital threats, such as those from private companies that develop state-sponsored rental spyware.
Lockdown Mode will be available later this fall on iOS 16, iPadOS 16, and macOS Ventura. It will be an opt-in security feature for a very small number of users who need even more security.
Lock mode restricts some applications, such as messaging, web browsing, Apple Services, wired connections, and profiles. This prevents attackers from loading malicious software onto Apple devices, protecting the owner’s highly confidential information and other data. This should also prevent the device from being controlled by criminals.
Apple has also announced that it will continue to invest and strengthen security in Lockdown Mode, and it promises to add new protections over time. The company has also created a new category within the Apple Security Bounty Program, offering duplicate payouts for eligible bugs to help fix and improve the feature. Apple will pay out a bounty of up to $2,000,000, which is currently the highest reward for researchers in the industry.
Where is Lockdown Mode available?
In the official press release, Apple revealed that the Lockdown Mode feature will be extended to iPadOS 16 and macOS Venture Beta releases in the feature. The news suggests it will be available on those devices and platforms when released publicly later in the fall.
We don’t know how the feature will work on other operating systems. We expect it to work the same on iPadOS, and we may see a few additional settings and options on macOS Ventura.
How does it work?
Apple says the opt-in Lockdown Mode feature will strictly restrict certain functionality, reducing the chances of cyber-attacks and confidential information being lost or stolen from devices. As we mentioned earlier, this feature is primarily aimed at highly influential people and organizations who may be targeted by cyber criminals and other organized groups.
People are unlikely to be targeted every day, and it is a small percentage of users who may be targeted by state-sponsored rental spyware, such as the Pegasus software that was used in the past.
At startup, Lockdown mode includes the following protections:
- Messages: Most message attachment types other than images are blocked. Some features, such as link previews, are disabled.
- Surf: Certain complex web technologies, such as just-in-time (JIT) JavaScript compilation, are disabled unless the user excludes a trusted site from Lockdown mode.
- Apple services: Incoming invitations and service requests, including FaceTime calls, will be blocked if the user has not previously sent the initiator a call or request.
- Wired connections with a computer or accessory are blocked when iPhone is locked.
- Configuration Profiles cannot be installed and the device cannot be enrolled in mobile device management (MDM) while the lock mode is enabled.
How to enable Lockdown Mode on your iPhone
Apple has announced iPhone Lockdown Mode in the latest iOS 16 Beta 3 release. The Newly Introduced iPhone Lockdown Mode Is Available In iOS 16† The new feature will also be available on iPadOS 16 and macOS Ventura Beta and final releases in the fall.
While we don’t recommend trying beta versions on your personal and only device, we have a: guide to help you install the latest iOS 16 Beta software† Before you get started, make sure you have backed up your device as a factory reset may be required and data may be lost with beta versions.
Follow the steps below to enable Lockdown Mode on your iPhone:
- Find the Settings app on your home screen
- Scroll down and tap Privacy and Security
- Scroll down and tap Lock Mode
- You can either tap Learn more… or tap Enable lock mode
- Once you’ve read the features and how they will affect your device, scroll all the way down and tap Enable lock mode
- A pop-up will appear asking you to reboot the device. To enable the feature, make sure you have . select Power on and reboot
Your phone will reboot and enter Lockdown mode. If you later decide to disable Lockdown Mode, repeat the same steps above to disable it. Please note that a reboot may be required.