This feature will automatically turn off when the user is in a frequently visited location, such as home or work. But the problem is they have no way of knowing which locations the iPhone considers familiar.
iPhone anti-theft feature is flawed
This feature will automatically turn off when the user is in a frequently visited location, such as home or work. But the problem is they have no way of knowing which locations the iPhone considers familiar.
Last week, Apple updated iOS 17.3 to add a new security feature called Stolen Device Protection, which helps protect data and prevent thieves from stealing your iPhone. password. However, it is not 100% safe as we think.
Perfect in theory
This feature protects the device in two main ways. When enabled, Stolen Device Protection requires users to authenticate using Face ID or Touch ID before changing any important security settings (such as Apple ID password, screen lock code, etc.).
This feature also applies a security delay, which means you have to wait an hour before changing settings and sensitive information. This is to give victims time to report their iPhone stolen before thieves break in and make significant changes.
However, if users have Important Locations enabled and are in a familiar location, they won’t be able to use these security layers. Apple’s introduction to the feature notes that these additional security steps are not required when the iPhone is in a frequently visited location. Users can use the screen lock code as usual.
In theory, this is a perfect solution because placing a phone in a familiar location (such as home) usually means the owner is using it. But how do you determine if a place is familiar, and if it’s worth turning off your phone protection?
Apple explains that familiar locations typically include home, work, and other places where users frequently use their iPhone. This means Apple evaluates locations based on how often and when users visit them.
This data is often used for other features, such as Siri Suggestions and Memories in the Photos app. But if it’s also used to protect stolen devices, that creates a lot of potential risks. Especially if the user frequents a specific cafe or restaurant and the thief knows this.