After about a month of beta testing, Apple unveiled an all-new super security feature this summer called Lockdown Mode that will arrive with iOS 16, iPadOS 16, and macOS Ventura. Follow along with us all you need to know like who it is, how it works, how to turn on/off lock mode in iOS 16 on iPhone, and more.
For whom does iPhone Lock Mode work?
Apple says the subscription iPhone Lock Mode in iOS 16 (available for iPad and Mac as well) is the first feature of its kind and will provide a maximum level of security. The truth is not intended for the average person. It is designed for a very small percentage of users who may be specifically targeted by highly sophisticated threats such as nation-state sponsored mercenary spyware, such as the Pegasus attack.
How it works?
With Lockdown mode enabled on an iPhone, iPad or Mac, the device’s functionality is limited to reduce the “attack surface” of potential exploits and strengthen defenses.
Here’s how Apple describes the security standards for Lockdown mode:
- Messages: Most types of message attachments other than images are blocked. Some features, such as link previews, are disabled.
- Browse the web: Some complex web technologies, such as JavaScript just-in-time (JIT) compilation, are disabled unless the user excludes a trusted site from lockout mode.
- Apple services: Incoming calls and service requests, including FaceTime calls, are blocked if the user has not previously sent a call or request to the initiator.
- confrontation time: FaceTime calls from people you haven’t called before are blocked.
- Shared albums: Shared albums will be removed from the Photos app, and invitations to new shared albums will be blocked.
- wired connections With a computer or accessory that is blocked when the iPhone is locked.
- Configuration profiles It cannot be installed, and the device cannot register in Mobile Device Manager (MDM), while locked mode is on.
For a deeper look at how all of this works, check out our detailed coverage:
How to turn on/off Lockdown Mode in iOS 16 on iPhone
NB: iPhone Lock Mode is now available for testing with beta, Check out our complete guide on installing iOS 16 beta.
Turn on lock mode
- open the Settings app In iOS 16 / iPadOS 16 or System Settings on macOS Ventura
- Choose Privacy and security
- At the bottom, tap lock mode
- Swipe down to find Turn on lock mode
- Faucet Play and restartEnter your passcode if prompted
Turn off lock mode
- come back to me Settings app In iOS 16 or System Settings on macOS Ventura
- Choose Privacy and security
- At the bottom, tap lock mode
- Now press Turn off lock mode
- Faucet Shutdown and restartEnter your passcode if prompted
Along with the launch of Lockdown Mode this fall, Apple is seeking collaboration and feedback from researchers and others in the security community. To help with that, the company has created a new category in the Apple Security Bounty program to reward those who find Lockdown Mode overrides and help strengthen the feature.
Notably, the rewards for eligible Lockdown Mode discoveries will be doubled, up to a maximum of $2,000,000 — which Apple says is the highest reward in the industry.
Thank you for reading our guide on how to turn on/off Lockdown Mode in iOS 16!
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