Apple’s Lockdown Mode is designed to protect against highly advanced cyberattacks by providing extra security settings for devices like the iPhone (running iOS 16 or later), iPad (running iPadOS 16 or later), and MacBooks with macOS Ventura (13.0) or newer.
What Happens in Lockdown Mode?
When Lockdown Mode is enabled, it activates several security features to safeguard your device:
- FaceTime: All FaceTime calls are blocked except those from people you've previously contacted.
- Messages: Apple’s Messages app blocks most attachments except for images, links, and other basic content.
- Web Browsing: Some performance-enhancing web technologies in Safari are disabled.
- Shared Albums: Shared albums in Photos are removed, and new sharing invitations are blocked.
- Device Connections: Wired connections to computers or other devices are disabled when in Lockdown Mode.
- Apple Services: Invitations to join Apple services are blocked unless previously accepted.
- Configuration Profiles: Installing configuration profiles (for beta versions or modified OS versions) is not allowed.
Who Needs Lockdown Mode?
Lockdown Mode limits certain device functions to boost security, making it essential to balance protection and usability. This feature is primarily for people who may face sophisticated cyber threats—such as politicians, journalists, and activists. These individuals are often in high-stakes or sensitive roles that could make them targets.
For the average user, Lockdown Mode may be excessive, and following basic security practices should suffice. However, if you want to activate Lockdown Mode, follow these steps:
- Go to Settings.
- Tap Privacy & Security.
- Select Lockdown Mode.
- Scroll down and tap Lockdown Mode, then select Turn On Lockdown Mode.
- Confirm to enable Lockdown Mode, and your device will restart with Lockdown Mode active.
