Apple's latest iOS update, iOS 16.3, brings many new improvements to the iPhone and iPad user experience. Among these, one of the most notable is the enhanced privacy and security features that have been added to the operating system. With the
growing number of cyber threats
and data breaches, protecting your personal information and sensitive data is more important than ever.
In this article, we'll take a closer look at the new security and privacy features in iOS 16 and how they can help keep your data safe and secure.
Advanced Data Protection for iCloud
One of the critical security features in iOS 16 is
Advanced Data Protection for iCloud.
The new feature provides an extra layer of protection for your iCloud-stored files and data by using end-to-end encryption, meaning that your data is encrypted both when it's stored on Apple's servers and when it's in transit between your device and the servers.
With Advanced Data Protection for iCloud, Apple uses encryption keys to protect additional iCloud data categories, including Photos, Notes, Voice Memos, Messages backups, and device backups. The key is never stored on Apple's servers, so even Apple cannot access your data. In addition, advanced Data Protection for iCloud uses a separate encryption key for each file, making it even more secure.
Turn on Advanced Data Protection by navigating to Settings ➡️ Profile ➡️ iCloud ➡️ Advanced Data Protection and toggle the button on.
Improve Digital Wellness with Safety Check
The iOS 16 update also includes digital wellness features that provide tools that help users control whom they are sharing information with, restrict Messages and FaceTime, reset privacy permissions, and change passwords.
Conduct a safety check by going into Settings ➡️ Privacy & Security ➡️ Safety Check
Improve Security with Lockdown Mode
Lockdown Mode
is also included in the update allowing
users to limit apps, websites, and features to enhance security. The feature is optional and should only be used if a
is suspected.
Go into Lockdown Mode by navigating to Settings ➡️ Privacy & Security ➡️ and turn on Lockdown Mode.
Privacy Control
iOS 16.3 brings even more robust privacy controls to users. One of the most notable iPad and iPhone features is Control App Tracking, which allows users to limit the data that apps can collect about them. This feature is designed to give users more control over their personal information and how third-party apps use it.
Below are four more of the most critical privacy features included in the iOS 16.3 update:
Passkeys feature
Allows users to create unique, randomized passkeys for different apps and websites. Additional keys make it more complicated for hackers to gain access to accounts, even if they have a password.
Support for Security Keys
A
that can authenticate a user's identity. When used with Touch ID or Face ID, Security Keys provide an extra layer of protection against phishing attempts and other forms of identity theft.
Mail Privacy Protection
Encrypts the links in email messages so that the sender can't track if the recipient clicks on a link, giving users more control over their online privacy.
Turn on Mail Privacy Protection by going into Settings ➡️ Mail ➡️ Privacy Protection ➡️ toggle Protect Mail Activity.
iMessage Contact Key Verification
Allows users to verify the identity of the people they are messaging before they start a conversation. The additional protection is intended for individuals at high risk of data breaches, like journalists, government employees, and human rights activists; the advanced setting is set to launch later this year.
Cybersecurity Services from Makios
If you are interested in implementing data protection and privacy technology into your business workflows but need help, contact us for a free consultation.
References: Forbes,
