For iPhone users, activating a crucial setting is highly recommended, especially given the rising number of phone thefts in the UK. With approximately 44,000 phones stolen in the first half of 2025, users of various devices have been affected.
Concerns over phone security, particularly with the recent release of the iPhone 17, have prompted experts to emphasize the importance of securing stolen devices. Darren Corney, a phone specialist at Insurance2Go, highlighted a security feature that can help mitigate risks.
The Stolen Device Protection feature is available on iPhones running iOS 17.3 or later. It enhances security by mandating biometric authentication (Face ID or Touch ID) for sensitive actions and implementing a security delay in unfamiliar locations.
According to Corney, this feature triggers a security alert when the phone is in an unrecognized location, requiring Face ID for specific phone features. Enabling this feature disables the option to use the passcode as a backup, ensuring that even if the thief knows the passcode, access to sensitive data is restricted.
Aside from enhancing security, the feature introduces a delay when attempting to modify security settings on the device, adding an extra layer of protection. This delay necessitates biometric confirmation for any changes, preventing immediate alterations to passwords or disabling ‘Find My iPhone’.
With the activation of this feature, it becomes significantly challenging for thieves to erase data on a stolen phone, reducing the chances of resale. Corney advises enabling Face ID, setting a passcode, and activating two-factor authentication for the Apple ID to enhance security.
The final step involves enabling ‘Significant Locations’ in the settings, allowing the phone to identify familiar places and detect unfamiliar locations. Following the on-screen instructions completes the setup process.
Corney urges individuals to activate these features to safeguard data even in the event of a phone theft, emphasizing the importance of creating barriers to minimize the impact on sensitive information once a phone is stolen.
At Reach and across our entities we and our partners use information collected through cookies and other identifiers from your device to improve experience on our site, analyse how it is used and to show personalised advertising. You can opt out of the sale or sharing of your data, at any time clicking the “Do Not Sell or Share my Data” button at the bottom of the webpage. Please note that your preferences are browser specific. Use of our website and any of our services represents your acceptance of the use of cookies and consent to the practices described in our Privacy Notice and Terms and Conditions.