11 Best Privacy Features in iOS 14

The iPhone line-up has always focused on privacy and security. Apple is committed to this idea and demonstrates it through massive billboards and expensive ads highlighting the device’s privacy features. The latest iOS 14 update further enhances user data protection and introduces new additions to millions of devices.

Apple has added privacy features with each iOS update, and this year’s iOS 14 update is worth downloading solely for privacy protection. The features include Privacy Reports in Safari, recording indicators, an option to share approximate location with apps instead of precise locations, and more.

In short, iOS 14 should make you and your data safer than ever. But it’s important to know where these features are and how to use them. We have compiled a list of the best privacy features in the iOS 14 update. Let’s get started.

1. Allow Access to Selected Photos

This is my favorite privacy feature in iOS 14. Instead of granting an app access to your entire photo library or nothing, you can select specific photos and videos for the app to access.

If you downloaded a Collage app, you don’t need to give it access to the entire photo library. Just select the relevant photos from the list.

2. Indicator When Microphone and Camera Are in Use

We’ve heard about sketchy apps accessing microphones and cameras in the background to listen to user conversations. In iOS 14, a new feature alerts you whenever an app accesses your microphone or camera. An indicator, displayed above the iPhone’s signal meter, shows an orange dot for microphone access and a green dot for camera access.

Open the Control Center, and you’ll notice the app icon invading your privacy in the background with the orange/green dot.

3. Clipboard Notification

An app in iOS 14 can notify you when it reads data from your clipboard, giving you insight into what advertisers can learn from your Clipboard history. This small but important enhancement improves user privacy.

TikTok caught accessing user Clipboard data in the background. This behavior is common for browser and keyboard apps that read Clipboard data for auto-fill entries. However, not all apps need to adopt this practice.

4. Limit Access to Location

The new Precise Location toggle switch allows you to turn off the feature when you’re okay with an app knowing your general area without revealing precise GPS coordinates.

Precision Location is necessary for certain apps to function correctly. However, weather-related apps can still work with just your approximate location.

5. Filter Out Bad Passwords

Apple offers iCloud Keychain to sync passwords and login credentials across all Apple devices, including iPhone, iPad, and Mac.

iOS 14 now provides password monitoring. It alerts you when your login details are detected in a data breach, potentially compromising your account security. To access this feature, go to Settings > Passwords and check the Security Recommendations section.

6. Privacy Report in Safari

Web browsing is safe and secure with Privacy Report in Safari. Tap on the menu in the address bar and go to Privacy Report. Here, you will see a breakdown of websites tracking you and the number of trackers Safari prevented.

7. Allow Apps to Request to Track

After the iOS 14 update, Apps now require your permission to start tracking you. You will receive a notification that provides you with the option to allow or restrict any app from tracking you.

By default, the option is disabled in Settings > Privacy > Tracking. When enabled, apps will ask for permission to track you.

8. Network Access

Apps in iOS 14 must request permission to access devices on your local network. This is necessary because some apps, like Instagram and Facebook, may not require access to your local network.

9. App Store Transparency

The App Store is introducing a privacy section on app pages to provide a summary of an app’s privacy practices prior to downloading. This enables users to make informed decisions about which apps to install on their iPhone and take precautions against invasive tracking. Although the feature is not yet available, it is expected to be implemented soon.

10. Limit Wi-Fi Tracking

When connected to a Wi-Fi network, you can Use a Private Address to prevent network operators from tracking your phone across different Wi-Fi networks.

Enabled by default, the Use Private Address setting in the Wi-Fi settings helps your iPhone generate random Mac addresses.

11. Sign in With Apple Update

Apple introduced Sign in with Apple last year, offering a convenient and secure method for entering login information on websites and apps. This feature allows you to use an anonymized email address to protect your privacy. With iOS 14, you can also convert your current login credentials to Sign in with Apple.

Enjoy a Safe and Secure Environment

Apple is commendable for its industry-leading commitments to user privacy. The company is intensifying efforts to provide a safe and secure smartphone experience. Give them a try and make necessary changes on the iPhone.

Next up, if you prioritize security, invest in a dependable password manager. Read the post below to discover the top five iCloud Keychain alternatives for iPhone.