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Why it issues: Months after The Wall Avenue Journal reported on iPhone’s vulnerability when thieves know the system’s passcode, Apple has initiated testing a countermeasure. The answer, whereas not foolproof, introduces an extra layer of safety aimed toward stopping iPhone theft from resulting in id theft.
Apple’s iOS 17.3 beta introduces a brand new anti-theft function that locks some features behind Face ID or Contact ID in case a thief discovers the telephone’s passcode. The beta is presently on a public preview stage and is predicted to be launched in January or February.
Earlier this 12 months, the Wall Avenue Journal reported on a growing trend of thieves stealing iPhones after watching or recording the homeowners as they enter their passcodes. The thieves can then use the passcodes to unlock almost all the things on the telephone, shortly locking customers out of their Apple accounts and probably stealing 1000’s of {dollars} by means of Apple Pay, Apple Card, and banking apps.
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The outlet adopted up on the story this week by interviewing a convicted thief who stole tons of of iPhones. He defined that he would befriend individuals in social settings, usually male school college students in bars, and persuade them to unlock their telephones underneath the pretense of sharing contact data. After stealing the telephone, he would change the Apple ID credentials inside minutes earlier than siphoning cash by means of accounts and promoting the telephone.
Apple’s new function, Stolen Gadget Safety, seeks to forestall this by locking cash and account-related options behind Face ID and Contact ID, with out permitting passcodes as a fallback. It solely prompts when the telephone is away from acquainted areas like dwelling or work.
Theoretically, a thief with the passcode would not have the ability to entry iCloud Keychain, apply for an Apple Card, deactivate Misplaced Mode, arrange a brand new system with the telephone, use cost strategies saved in Safari, or wipe the system. Moreover, when Stolen Gadget Safety is engaged, altering credentials or turning off Discover My iPhone requires passing two biometrics checks with a one-hour delay in between. Whereas extra decided criminals might probably circumvent the measure, it would deter a thief who grabs the telephone and runs off with it.
The iOS 17.3 beta additionally resurrects Collaborative Apple Music Playlists, which appeared within the iOS 17.2 beta however did not make it into the general public launch. The operate allows customers to ask family and friends members to counsel songs for playlists.
Picture credit score: Wall Avenue Journal
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