Apple has introduced a new feature called Stolen Device Protection, which enhances security measures even if a thief manages to steal your phone and knows the PIN. This feature includes sub-features such as mandatory Face ID/Touch ID authentication for important commands, as well as a one-hour delay when changing passwords.
The password change delay only applies when the iPhone is outside of its usual location. If you are using it at home or work, it will function as usual. The important commands that require Face ID/Touch ID authentication include viewing passwords in Keychain, opening Apple Card, viewing Apple Card numbers, disabling Lost Mode, erasing device data, sending commands in Apple Cash, making payments through Safari, and transferring accounts to a new device.
Earlier this year, the Wall Street Journal reported on a gang of criminals in the United States who used covertly obtained PINs to steal phones. This allowed them to change iCloud passwords and seize control of victims’ accounts. They were then able to empty all the victim’s accounts.
Currently, Stolen Device Protection is available only in iOS 17.3 Beta and needs to be manually enabled.
TLDR: Apple has introduced Stolen Device Protection, a new feature that provides additional security measures for stolen devices. It includes mandatory Face ID/Touch ID authentication for important commands and a one-hour password change delay. This feature aims to address the issue of thieves using stolen phones to access and control victims’ accounts.
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