Your iPhone is full of your life
Photos, banking information, passwords—everything. Every day you read about stolen phones, hacked accounts, and leaked private photos. You think: that won't happen to me. But here's the thing: most victims thought exactly the same thing . They had Face ID enabled. They even used cases and screen protectors to physically protect their devices. Still, something went wrong.
Not because criminals are getting smarter – but because we're securing the wrong things . We protect our AirPods from scratches better than we protect our bank details from hackers. This guide turns that around. In fifteen concrete steps, you can close the real vulnerabilities. No technical hassle, no paranoia. Just the measures that really matter.
Useful links
The Reality of iPhone Security
Your iPhone contains more personal data than your safe at home. Bank details, medical information, private photos, work documents—it's all contained in that one device. Yet, we often treat it like a regular phone. The statistics don't lie: a smartphone is stolen every three minutes in the Netherlands. Even more alarming is that 68% of victims never recover their data.
Most users think they're safe with just Face ID. That's a misconception. Modern cybercriminals use sophisticated techniques like phishing, malware, and social engineering. They don't even need to steal your device to access your data.
Basic protection: the foundation
1. Upgrade your access code
Forget that simple four-digit passcode. Switch to an alphanumeric code of at least eight characters. Go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode > Change Passcode > Passcode Options. Choose a combination that no one can guess, but that you'll remember.
2. Configure Face ID smartly
Face ID is secure, but only if you configure it correctly. Add an alternative look for when you're wearing sunglasses. Enable "Require Attention for Face ID"—this prevents someone from unlocking your phone while you're sleeping.
3. Enable two-factor authentication everywhere
Not just for your Apple ID, but for every important app. Gmail, WhatsApp, your banking app—everything. This takes five minutes per app, but it increases your security exponentially. Preferably use an authenticator app instead of SMS codes.
Advanced privacy settings
4. Restrict lock screen access
Go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode. Scroll down and turn off everything under "Allow Access When Locked." Yes, it's less convenient. But no one can read your messages or use Siri without unlocking.
5. Check app permissions monthly
Apps are increasingly demanding access. That Flashlight app really doesn't need access to your contacts. Check Settings > Privacy & Security monthly. View which apps have access by category and revoke permissions where possible.
6. Disable ad tracking
Settings > Privacy & security > Tracking. Turn off "Allow apps to request tracking." This prevents companies from tracking you across apps. You'll still see ads, but they'll be less targeted.
Network security
7. Avoid public Wi-Fi like the plague
That free Wi-Fi at the station? A goldmine for hackers. Use your mobile data or invest in a reliable VPN service. If you must use public Wi-Fi, never do any banking or log in to important accounts.
8. Configure auto-connect
Your device remembers every network you've ever logged into. Go to Settings > Wi-Fi, tap the "i" icon next to old networks, and select "Forget This Network." Keep only your home and work networks.
9. Use Private Relay for Safari
For iCloud+ subscribers: Enable Private Relay in Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > Private Relay. This hides your IP address and browsing activity from websites and your internet service provider.
Data protection
10. Make smart backups
iCloud backups are convenient, but not always secure enough for sensitive data. Make a monthly encrypted backup on your computer. Also, use iCloud for daily backups of less sensitive data.
11. Enable 'Clear data after 10 attempts'
Extreme but effective: Settings > Face ID & Passcode > Erase Data. After ten failed attempts, your iPhone will erase itself. Make sure you have good backups.
12. Use the safe for sensitive notes
The Notes app has a lock feature. Swipe left on a note and tap the lock icon. Use this for passwords, PINs, or other sensitive information you need to remember.
Anti-theft measures
13. Configure 'Find My' completely
Don't just turn it on, but also enable "Send Last Location." This automatically sends your location to Apple when your battery is low. Also enable "Find My Network" so other Apple devices can help locate your iPhone.
14. Set up a medical ID without personal details
Useful for emergencies, but avoid giving your full name and address. Use only your first name, blood type, and any allergies. Add a contact person with just a first name and phone number.
15. Activate stolen device protection
New in iOS 17.3: This feature requires Face ID or Touch ID for critical changes when you're not in a trusted location. Go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode > Stolen Device Protection.
Specific tips for parents
Kids with an iPhone? Don't just use Screen Time for time limits. Set up Content & Privacy Restrictions to block in-app purchases and limit location sharing to family members. Also set Communication Limits to manage who your child can communicate with during screen time.
Consider a family password management plan. This way, you can teach children the importance of strong, unique passwords from an early age without them having to remember them.
Maintenance and monitoring
Security isn't a one-time setup. Schedule a monthly security checkup:
- Check which devices have access to your Apple ID
- View your app permissions
- Update all apps and the operating system
- Delete apps you no longer use
- Check if your backups are still working
Keep your digital footprint small. Delete old photos and messages regularly. What's not on your phone can't be stolen.
The balance between security and ease of use
Yes, these measures make your iPhone less user-friendly. But remember: every extra second it takes to unlock your phone is a barrier for criminals. The question isn't if you'll be hacked, but when. With these fifteen steps, you'll make it so difficult for hackers that they'll likely look for an easier target.
Perfect security doesn't exist, but this approach will get you a long way. Start with the basics, gradually add more measures, and make it a habit to check your settings regularly. Your digital life is worth it.
Security is common sense
Securing your iPhone isn't a matter of paranoia, but common sense . The fifteen steps in this guide take some time and practice, but they protect what truly matters: your privacy, your money, and your digital identity. Start today with the first three basic steps and build from there.
Every extra security measure you add makes you a less attractive target . Criminals always choose the easiest route – make sure your iPhone isn't one of them.
