Consumer electronics giant Apple (AAPL) has introduced a new security feature for its iPhones that protects users when hackers and thieves learn their passcodes.
The new feature, called “Stolen Device Protection,” creates a second layer of security, making it harder for hackers to use the passcodes they’ve obtained.
If Stolen Device Protection mode is turned on, the device will require Apple’s facial recognition in addition to a passcode for users to perform sensitive actions such as viewing stored passwords or wiping the phone and resetting it.
Going forward, thieves won’t be able to make changes or access the settings on an iPhone with only a passcode.
Also, hackers won’t be able to change a user’s Apple ID password or remove FaceID without a mandatory one-hour delay, and then they must pass another FaceID check.
Currently, Apple requires iPhone users to input a four-digit or six-digit passcode to access the device. The new security setting comes after the company received criticism that its iPhones were susceptible to being hacked.
The new Stolen Device Protection mode will be included in Apple’s iOS 17.3 update.
Apple’s stock has risen 56% in 2023 and currently trades at $194.71 U.S. per share.
