In an age where digital threats are becoming more sophisticated, ensuring the security of personal information has never been more crucial. Apple recognizes this need and introduces Lockdown Mode, an additional layer of protection designed for individuals who may be targeted by advanced digital threats. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps on how to enable Lockdown Mode on your iPhone, enhancing your device’s security against potential vulnerabilities.
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What is the Lockdown Mode on the iPhone?
Lockdown Mode is an extra layer of security designed for individuals who may be targeted by advanced digital threats due to their identity or profession. It’s not something most people need since the average person isn’t usually the target of such sophisticated attacks.
When Lockdown Mode is activated, your device operates differently than usual. This is done to minimize the potential vulnerabilities that could be exploited by highly targeted spyware. Some apps, websites, and features are restricted for security reasons, and certain experiences might not be available.
You can use Lockdown Mode if you have iOS 16 or later, iPadOS 16 or later, watchOS 10 or later, or macOS Ventura or later. For even more protection, additional features are available in iOS 17, iPadOS 17, watchOS 10, and macOS Sonoma. Make sure to update your devices to the latest software version before enabling Lockdown Mode to access the full range of protections.
READ ALSO: How to Use Lockdown Mode on Any Android Phone
What Happens When You Enable the Lockdown Mode on Your iPhone?
When you turn on Lockdown Mode on your iPhone or iPad, it does a few settings will be disabled or enabled to keep your device safe:
FaceTime: Only calls from people you’ve called before will get through. Others will be blocked.
Messages: The built-in texting app will only let you send and receive images, links, and shared content. Attachments are blocked.
Web Browsing: In Safari, some fancy features that boost performance are turned off.
Shared Albums: All shared albums in the Photos app will be deleted, and you won’t be able to accept new shared album invitations.
Device Connections: If your device is locked, it won’t connect to computers or other devices using wires.
Apple Services: You won’t get invitations from others to join Apple services unless you’ve invited them before.
Profiles: You can’t install special versions of your device’s operating system using configuration profiles when Lockdown Mode is on.
How to Enable Lockdown Mode on your iPhone
1. Go to the Settings app on your iPhone.
2. Choose the Privacy & Settings option from the displayed list.
3. Next, tap Lockdown Mode and do the same in the confirmation window.
4. Go ahead and tap on Turn On & Restart option.
5. Your iPhone will then restart in Lockdown Mode.