With the release of iOS 16 and iPadOS 16, Apple introduced Lockdown Mode, offering users an “extreme” level of security. This article explains who Lockdown Mode is for, what it does, and how to enable it.
In iOS 16 and iPadOS 16, Apple brought iPhone and iPad users Lockdown Mode, an optional new security feature that’s designed to protect users who may be at risk of highly targeted cyberattacks from private companies developing state-sponsored spyware.
While the feature is aimed at the very small number of users who could be targets of cyberattacks, such as journalists, activists, and government employees, any user can enable it on their device for what Apple calls an “extreme” level of security.
Lockdown Mode Protections
When enabled, Lockdown Mode strictly limits or disables the functionality of features, apps, and websites. Lockdown Mode protections include the following:
How to Enable Lockdown Mode on iPhone and iPad
Lockdown Mode is turned off by default on iPhone and iPad, but you can enable it by following these steps.
- Launch the Settings app.
- Scroll down and tap Privacy & Security.
- Scroll to the bottom of the menu and under “Security,” tap Lockdown Mode.
- Read the on-screen information, then tap Turn On Lockdown Mode.
- Review the list of protections. If you’re still happy to go ahead, tap Turn On Lockdown Mode.
Apple has added a new category to its Security Bounty program to reward researchers who find Lockdown Mode bypasses and help improve its protections, so expect new protections to be added over time.
