"Apple Testing New Stolen Device Protection Feature for iPhones"

Apple recently announced that it’s testing a new security feature that should prevent iPhone thieves from gaining complete control over the victim’s device and online accounts, even if the phone’s passcode has been compromised.  According to the Wall Street Journal, earlier this year, many owners around the United States complained about having significant amounts of money transferred out of their accounts after their phones had been stolen.  An investigation showed that the thieves, who typically targeted bargoers, were often part of a crime ring that stole phones, but not before one member of the thieves observed or recorded the victim entering the passcode to unlock the iPhone that would soon get stolen.  The Wall Street Journal noted that knowing the passcode of the stolen phone enabled the thieves to take control of the victim’s Apple ID and access financial accounts from which they could transfer money to accounts they controlled.  With the release of iOS 17.3 beta, Apple is testing a new Stolen Device Protection feature that adds an additional layer of security in case an iPhone gets stolen and the thief has somehow also obtained the owner’s passcode.  Apple noted that when the feature is enabled, access to saved passwords is protected by Face ID verification.  In addition, when someone attempts to erase the phone, use saved payment methods, apply for an Apple Card, disable Find My, or use passwords or passkeys, a security delay is triggered, which involves a biometric authentication check immediately and again after one hour.  This delay is not activated when the iPhone is at familiar locations, such as the user’s home or workplace.  The Stolen Device Protection feature can be tested by iOS 17.3 beta users by enabling it from the Face ID & Passcode screen in Settings.

SecurityWeek reports: "Apple Testing New Stolen Device Protection Feature for iPhones"