Last Updated: June 12th, 2017
Security has been a major concern for iPhone users although iOS devices are safer than Android. If you have recently bought yourself a new iPhone or iPad, here are the important iPhone security and privacy settings you should change.
We have seen that malicious malware like XcodeGhost, WireLurker have infected iPhone users and stolen important data. It is imperative your device is protected from iPhone malware.
To protect your privacy and prevent hackers and thieves from accessing your iPhone data you need to make some changes with your iPhone settings.
iPhone Privacy and Security Settings in 2016
1. Create Six- Digit Alphanumeric Passcode
First security setting for your iPhone, iPad is to create alphanumeric passcode. Apple has introduced six-digit passcode with iOS 9, earlier it was four-digit passcode. With six-digit passcode your iPhone, iPad will be more secure.
To do so, Go to Settings >> Touch ID & Passcode >>Turn Passcode On >> Passcode Options. Now, you will get options to create a custom alphanumeric code, numeric code, or four-digit numeric code.
2. Enable Finger Security With Touch-ID
To secure your latest iPhone enable finger print security. If you have iPhone 5s and above device you can enable Touch-ID.
Launch Settings >> Touch ID & Passcode. Follow the instructions to enroll your finger.
Once you set up Touch ID you will be able to able unlock iPhone using your fingerprint. Enroll only one finger to get the best security for iPhone.
3. Disable Control Center and Siri On Lock Screen
Anybody can swipe lock screen of your iPhone to access Control Center and Siri to reveal important information.
To disable Control Center on Lock Screen
Go to Settings >> Control Center >> Access on Lock Screen turn off the toggle switch.
To disable Siri on Lock Screen
Settings >> Touch ID & Passcode >> Allow Access When Locked. Tap on the toggle switch to turn it off if Siri is enabled.
4. Enable “Find My iPhone”
Enable “Find My iPhone” on your iPhone to find your device in case it gets lost or stolen. Go to Settings >> iCloud >>Find My iPhone Switch On.
5. Set Up Two-Step Verification
Tw0- Step verification is one of the best way to add security to your iPhone. By enabling two-step verification you can save your data being stolen by hackers.
Once you have enabled two-step verification for your device, you will be required to enter your passcode and verification code sent by Apple on your device to access your Account. Hence, even if someone has your login details he will not be able to access your Account.
Go through steps to enable two-step verification on Apple ID.
6. Require Password With Every App Purchase
Apple has introduced a new feature with iOS 9 which gives users the option to enter a password every time they purchase an app from the App Store. This is a good feature in case you have kids at home or if your phone is used by others.
Go to Settings >> App and iTunes Store >> select Password Settings >> Always Require.
7. Lower Auto-lock Timing To 30 Seconds
8. Prevent Location-based tracking
You can easily change location -based tracking by going to Settings >> Privacy >> Location Services >> System Services and select services which you want to disable.
How To Turn Off Frequent Locations in iPhone
Hoping that by following these iPhone privacy and security settings you will be able to secure your device and valuable data.