By Emma Reynolds 
We live in a world where our smartphones hold our entire lives – personal photos, contact information, banking and shopping apps, and so much more. This makes them prime targets for thieves looking to steal personal information or resell stolen devices. In an effort to protect its users, Apple has recently implemented new passcode security measures on iPhones. Let’s take a closer look at these changes and how they will impact you.
First and foremost, Apple has tightened the rules for failed passcode attempts. Previously, users could enter an incorrect passcode 10 times before the device would erase all data. Now, after just five incorrect attempts, the device will lock and can only be unlocked with the correct passcode or through Apple’s Find My iPhone feature. This will act as a deterrent to anyone trying to enter random passcodes to gain access to stolen devices.
In addition to this, Apple has added an extra layer of security for users with Touch ID enabled. Previously, if the device was restarted or had not been unlocked in48 hours, users would need to enter their passcode to unlock their device. Now, users will need to input their passcode every time their device is turned on or locked, making it much harder for thieves to access personal information.
One of the most notable changes to passcode security on iPhones is the elimination of the four-digit passcode option. Users now have the option to choose a six-digit passcode, making it significantly harder for thieves to guess and gain access to the device. In fact, with a six-digit passcode, there are over one million possible combinations compared to just 10,000 with a four-digit passcode.
But the improvements don’t stop there. For even greater security, users can now opt for a custom alphanumeric passcode. This means that users can choose a password using letters, numbers, and special characters, which creates an even more complex and secure passcode. While this may take a bit longer to input each time the device is unlocked, the added security is well worth it.
Apple’s efforts to tighten passcode security on iPhones not only protect users from thieves, but also protect against data breaches and hacks. With these changes, Apple is setting the standard for smartphone security and showing their commitment to protecting user’s personal information. As technology continues to advance and our reliance on smartphones grows, it’s reassuring to know that our devices are becoming even more secure.
In conclusion, with the rise of smartphone thefts and the increasing amount of personal information stored on our devices, it is crucial for manufacturers to prioritize security. Apple’s latest changes to passcode security on iPhones demonstrate their dedication to protecting their users’ privacy and personal information. These improvements not only act as a deterrent for thieves, but also give users peace of mind knowing that their devices are now even more secure. As technology continues to evolve, let’s hope that other manufacturers will follow Apple’s lead in prioritizing user security.