Lockdown Mode on iPhones: How does it help your Apple devices?

If you’re an iPhone user, you’re probably enjoying the countless features that iOS 17 has brought forth with its update. And, if there’s anything Apple swears by, it is its stringent privacy policies. But whether or not you’re well-versed with the updated iOS, there’s probably a critical security that you may have missed out on.

A recent post on X (formerly Twitter) highlighted how Apple warned several lawmakers about state-sponsored attacks on their iPhones. But if you’re confused about what the Lockdown Mode has to do with this, we’re here to help you understand.

What is Lockdown Mode on your iPhone?

Apple calls the Lockdown Mode an “extreme level of protection” against spyware and hackers that helps shield the iPhones against any suspicious attack. While we combat various scammers and phishing links on a routine basis, these attacks are often sent without any user interaction.

Known as ‘zero-click’ attacks, this can harm your core device functions, including calling, messaging and even browsing the internet. Apple targets the attackers by fixing these vulnerabilities as soon as they’re discovered. The purpose of this feature is primarily to safeguard the devices of journalists, lawmakers or human rights defenders.

How does the Lockdown Mode work?

Activating the Lockdown Mode temporarily shuts down some of the most vulnerable features of your iPhone. It even reinforces security and makes it difficult to break into your device.

ALSO READ: 10 iOS 17 features that you can look forward to this year

This means it wards off certain types of links in your messages by disabling previews and blocking incoming texts. It even cancels unknown FaceTime calls and blocks certain web tech to protect your browsing experience.

How to turn on the Lockdown mode on your iPhone

For additional safety, you can turn on the Lockdown mode on your iPhone with a few simple steps. However, keep in mind that your device needs to be updated to the latest software version before you do. While the feature will be duplicated for your Apple Watch, if you’re using an iPad or a Mac, ensure you turn on this feature separately for your other devices as well.

Step 1: Open the Settings app on your iPhone
Step 2: Tap on Privacy and Security
Step 3: Scroll to the bottom of the page to find Lockdown Mode; Switch it on
Step 4: Tap on Turn On and Restart to reboot your device
Step 5: Enter your device passcode once you’re done

Before you switch it on, you will find a disclaimer taking you through the use case of the feature. Ensure you go through it before proceeding. While the feature may or may not be able to protect your device against every attack, if you sense you’re at risk, it certainly adds a layer of security to ensure peace of mind.