Apple’s long-awaited iOS 17 update for iPhones is here, bringing new and improved security features. The update includes protections in Lockdown Mode, which now runs on Apple Watch as well. Lockdown Mode selectively turns off certain iPhone features that have been abused by spyware makers in the past, making it harder for them to compromise the device. iOS 17 also introduces more anti-web tracking features in Safari, stripping tracking information from web addresses to make it harder for websites and advertisers to track users. These new features aim to protect iPhone owners, including journalists, activists, and human rights defenders, from cyberattacks and spyware.
iOS 17 includes these new security and privacy features
Apple’s iOS 17 update for iPhones brings a range of new security and privacy features. One notable addition is the expansion of Lockdown Mode to Apple Watch, providing increased protection against spyware. Lockdown Mode selectively disables certain iPhone features that have been targeted by spyware makers in the past. Additionally, iOS 17 introduces more anti-web tracking features in Safari, making it harder for websites and advertisers to track users. These features aim to protect iPhone owners, particularly those at higher risk of cyberattacks and spyware.
New protections in Lockdown Mode
Lockdown Mode in iOS 17 now includes support for Apple Watch, in addition to iPhones, iPads, and Macs. This update is important as recent exploits have shown that Apple Watch owners are also vulnerable to spyware attacks. Lockdown Mode selectively disables certain iPhone and Watch features, such as iMessage and HomeKit, which have been abused by spyware makers in the past. This makes it more difficult for attackers to compromise a device and steal its data. Lockdown Mode also automatically removes geolocation data from shared photos, enhancing privacy and preventing location tracking.
More anti-web tracking features
iOS 17’s Safari browser introduces new anti-web tracking features to enhance user privacy. Safari now removes tracking information from web addresses, making it harder for websites and advertisers to track users across the web. This feature can be enabled in Safari settings and can be applied to private browsing or all browsing sessions. The aim is to prevent websites and advertisers from gathering data about users’ browsing habits and preferences. These anti-web tracking features are designed to protect user privacy and provide a more secure browsing experience.
