If there is one thing Apple does best, is by regularly improving security on its device to ensure the maximum safety of its users. No wonder the brand is often the most preferred choice of users among other brands.
The company is always making it difficult for hackers to find vulnerabilities on its iOS-powered devices. Recently, the company is previewing a groundbreaking security capability that offers specialized additional protection to users who may be at risk of highly targeted cyber attacks from private companies developing state-sponsored mercenary spyware.
Apple is introducing a new security feature to its device called “Lockdown mode”. This is a free feature that will strengthen its user’s Iphone, Ipad, and Macbook, making it very hard for hackers to compromise their devices through highly targeted attacks.
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The lockdown mode is not yet available as it is set to be released with iOS16, IpadOS16, and macOS Ventura. For users who face grave targeted threats to their digital security, this feature will come in very handy as it offers extreme protection.
With so many security features on its device, it is safe to say that Apple makes one of the most secure mobile devices in the market. This recent “lockdown mode” feature shows the company’s unwavering commitment to protecting its users from sophisticated attacks.
To show how committed they are to ensuring its user’s safety, Apple’s head of Security Engineering and Architecture, Ivan Krstic disclosed that they will continue to work tirelessly to protect its users, which includes continuing to design defenses specifically for its users as well as supporting researchers and organizations around the world, doing critically important work in exposing mercenary companies that create these attacks.
The Lockdown mode feature was developed not necessarily for every iPhone user, but rather for users with occupations like journalists, activists, and human rights defenders, all of which need the lockdown mode because of who they are and what they do.
The Lockdown mode includes the following protection features;
- Apple Services: Incoming invitations and service requests which include face-time calls, are blocked if the user has not previously sent the indicator a call or request.
- Messages: Most message attachment types other than images are blocked, and some features, like link previews, are disabled.
- Wired connections with a computer or accessory are blocked when iPhone is locked
- Web Browsing: Certain complex web technologies, like just-in-time (JIT) javascript compilations, are disabled unless the user excludes a trusted side from lockdown mode.
- Configuration Profiles cannot be installed and the device cannot enroll into mobile device management (MDM) while lockdown mode is turned on.
To further ensure the safety of the Lockdown mode, Apple has established a new category within the Apple security Bounty program that will reward researchers who find lockdown mode bypasses and help improve its projection.