Stolen Device Protection on iPhone, explained
Why it exists
Your passcode opens a lot. If someone watches you type it and then takes your phone, it could get them into your saved passwords and your Apple Account. Stolen Device Protection, available from iOS 17.3, is Apple's answer to that.
How to turn it on
- Open Settings and tap Face ID & Passcode.
- Enter your passcode.
- Tap Stolen Device Protection and turn it on. It may already be on.
You need two-factor authentication on your Apple Account, a passcode, Face ID or Touch ID, Significant Locations turned on, and Find My turned on.
What changes away from familiar places
Familiar places are usually your home, your work and other places you often use your phone. Elsewhere, some things need Face ID or Touch ID with no passcode fallback:
- Using saved passwords or passkeys
- Using payment methods saved in Safari
- Turning off Lost Mode
- Erasing all content and settings
- Setting up a new device with Quick Start, or moving an eSIM
Apple Pay purchases can still use your passcode.
The one-hour wait
The biggest changes take Face ID or Touch ID, a one-hour wait, and then Face ID or Touch ID again. These include:
- Changing your Apple Account password
- Signing out of your Apple Account
- Changing your passcode
- Changing Apple Account security settings, such as trusted devices and recovery contacts
- Adding or removing Face ID or Touch ID
- Turning off Stolen Device Protection
The wait can end early once your iPhone detects you're somewhere familiar. At home or work your passcode works as usual, so if you'd like the protection everywhere, choose Always.
What it doesn't do
It doesn't stop someone opening your iPhone with your passcode, or looking through your photos once it's open. Apple lists opening an app you've locked with iPhone's own lock-an-app feature as needing Face ID or Touch ID, but other apps that accept your passcode may still open. So it's worth knowing what else to do.
How FirstHour helps
Stolen Device Protection is one of the 16 guided tips in Plan B, along with Find My and a SIM PIN. FirstHour walks you through the settings, but only you can switch them on.
Questions
Can I turn it on after my phone is stolen?
No. Apple says it must be on before the device is lost or stolen.
Will it get in my way?
Mostly when you change important settings away from home. You can still pay with Apple Pay using your passcode.
Sources
- About Stolen Device Protection for iPhone, Apple Support