Since Apple released the new update of iOS 17.2, iOS developer had released a beta feature to help stop iPhone thieves.
Our smartphones store so much personal information on there from banking apps to store passwords. Once a thief gains access, it's game over.
Apple plans to crack down on iPhone thieves and make the access process a whole lot more difficult for them.
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The new feature Stolen Device Protection prevents thieves from changing the iPhone passcode, and is currently being rolled out in beta mode.
If the iPhone reaches a new location and Stolen Device Protection is enabled, the device will demand Face ID or Touch ID recognition before allowing further access.
This extends to restricting entry to sensitive data on the phone, such as passwords or the option to wipe the phone entirely.
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Cleverly, if a thief attempts to create a new password on the stolen iPhone, it activates a one-hour delay. This delay allows the owner some time to report the phone as stolen.
Even after one hour, Face ID or Touch ID verification is still required to confirm the password change. If this fails, the heightened security measures mean users cannot alternatively use the passcode to sign in.
On the back of their new beta feature, Apple stated: 'As threats to user devices continue to evolve, we work tirelessly to develop powerful new protections for our users and their data. iPhone data encryption has long led the industry, and a thief can’t access data on a stolen iPhone without knowing the user's passcode.
'In the rare cases where a thief can observe the user entering the passcode and then steal the device, Stolen Device Protection adds a sophisticated new layer of protection.'
Facial or touch authentication is also required for applying for an Apple Card, turning off Lost Mode, and accessing payment methods within Safari.
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Most importantly, Apple's password manager - iCloud Keychain - is usually an easy target for criminals as it stores all passwords in one place, requiring only the user's PIN for access to banking apps and cash services.
However, the new Stolen Device Protection raises the security measures and strictly requires Face ID or Touch ID verification before accessing these services, with passcodes no longer cutting it for backup.
If the beta feature is successful, the final version will be released in iOS 17.3, iPhone users will see its availability in the early part of next year.
If you installed the first developer beta of iOS 17.3, you can enable Stolen Device Protection through Settings > Face ID & Passcode > Stolen Device Protection.
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Alongside the new feature, users are advised to maintain a good level of cyber security across all apps and features on their phones.
Apps, emails and websites that require a login should enable two-factor authentication where possible.
And beware of apps that require additional PINs sent through text as this could still be easily accessible to thieves one they gain entry.