In the beta rollout of iOS 17.3 for developers, Apple tightened safeguards to deter iPhone theft. The emphasis is on cases where someone might learn a device password and try to seize control of the phone. The Wall Street Journal has explained how this kind of innovation targets real‑world risks facing iPhones.
Earlier reports from WSJ noted a rise in thefts in public places like bars, where criminals watched for Apple ID security codes and then grabbed devices. Thieves could reset passwords, block legitimate owners from accessing accounts, and disrupt the device tracking service, leaving the rightful user with few options.
With iOS 17.3, Apple introduced several countermeasures to counter these threats. A major change is that access to stored passwords now requires biometric confirmation, using either Face ID or Touch ID, to verify the user attempting to use those credentials.
Privacy changes also involve a one‑hour delay on actions such as updating privacy settings or changing an Apple ID password. This timer helps prevent impulsive or fraudulent updates. There are exceptions, however. In certain trusted locations, like a home or office, the delay can be waived, enabling legitimate updates to proceed without delay.
Another key safeguard covers situations where protection is active without biometric authentication. If a device is lost and biometric verification isn’t used, the system stops the user from turning off tracking, erasing settings, or using payment details stored in Safari. This also affects the ability to apply for a new Apple Card or to view existing virtual cards, thereby limiting a thief’s ability to monetize or further compromise the account.
Apple has long given ordinary users access to diagnostic tools for device repair. In this update, the focus remains on empowerment and quick recovery while maintaining a tough barrier for potential thieves, making it harder for unauthorized individuals to bypass security layers.