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1 7 Best Privacy and Security Features of iOS 17

7 Best Privacy and Security Features of iOS 17

Apple has consistently improved privacy and security features in each iOS update, including the latest iOS 17 software. User privacy is a primary focus for iPhone, and this commitment is taken to new heights with iOS 17. Here are the top privacy and security features of iOS 17.

Currently, iOS 17 is only available in developer beta. To access the early build of iOS 17, refer to our dedicated post. Once installed, review the hidden features and privacy add-ons to safeguard your data from prying eyes. Apple plans to launch a public beta rollout in July 2023, followed by the release of the stable iOS 17 build for eligible devices in mid-September 2023.

1. Prompt to Check Photos Access

When installing and opening an app on your iPhone, it requests permission to access your photos and videos. You can give full access or choose specific media files.

Many users grant full media access to third-party apps and forget about it. However, with iOS 17, prompts appear to confirm if you still want to allow full photo access.

Third-party apps with full access can view your photos and metadata, including location, depth information, and captions. See the screenshot below to view these prompts. You have the option to restrict access or continue allowing full access.

2. Protect Private Browsing in Safari with Face ID

Private browsing in Safari is enhanced in iOS 17. You can now protect private tabs with Face ID on your iPhone. If the option is not visible in Safari, make the following setting tweak:

Step 1: Open the Settings app on your iPhone and go to Safari.

Step 2: Scroll down to ‘Privacy & Security’ and enable the ‘Require Face ID to Unlock Private Browsing’ toggle.

Step 3: Open Safari and check the recent tabs. Move to the Private tab.

Step 4: Safari asks for Face ID authentication to check the tabs.

3. Tracking Prevention in Safari, Mail, and Messages

Apple has implemented advanced tracking prevention in Safari, Mail, and Messages. Adding tracking parameters to weblinks is a way for advertisers to track your online activities. Safari, Mail, and Messages automatically detect and remove these tracking parts.

The option is available during private browsing in Safari, as well as for links received from Mail and Messages. You can also enable it for regular Safari browsing. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Open Settings on your iPhone and go to Safari.

Step 2: Scroll to Advanced.

Step 3: Tap ‘Advanced Tracking and Fingerprinting Protection.’

Step 4: Tap All Browsing.

4. Hide Sensitive Photos

The Messages app can detect nude and sensitive photos before they are sent or viewed on your child’s phone. It initially provides guidance and age-appropriate warning to help them make a safe choice. Enable this option in Settings. To do so, open the Settings app on your iPhone and go to Screen Time.

Step 2: Select Communication Safety.

Step 3: Enable the Check for Sensitive Photos toggle.

Do note that the filter only applies to the Messages app. If you use Telegram, WhatsApp, or another third-party app, you won’t receive any such warning.

5. Keep Your Screen Distance in Check

Due to increased screen time, the risk of myopia is increasing among children. Enable the Screen Distance toggle in the Settings app. It will warn you when you hold the iPhone or iPad too close for an extended period.

Step 1: Open the Settings app, scroll down to select Screen Time, and choose Screen Distance.

Step 2: Enable the toggle for Screen Distance.

6. Messages Check In

Another privacy add-on in Messages is the ability to automatically notify your friend or family member when you arrive at your destination, like your hotel or home. Let’s see how it works.

Step 1: Open a conversation in Messages and tap the + button to expand further.

Step 2: Select Check In and follow the instructions. Choose to share limited or full details of your phone and location.

Step 3: Tap Edit and select When I arrive.

Step 4: Set a destination location, tap Done, and send it.

7. Auto-Delete Verification Codes

You can auto-delete verification codes received via Messages and Mail by enabling the feature in your device settings. Here’s how:

1. Launch the Settings app and navigate to Passwords.

Step 2: Select Password Options and enable Clean Up Automatically.

Privacy Is the Front and Center of iOS 17

Apple enhances user privacy and security with iOS 17. It includes a Lockdown Mode to defend against cyber attacks. What is your preferred security feature in iOS 17? Let us know in the comments.