Apple announced yesterday the introduction of a new mode ” Lockdown » on the next versions of its different OS. This option will allow you to activate a whole range of measures that significantly increase the level of security, to the detriment of many features.
This is a radical solution that Apple will make available to users of iOS 16, iPadOS 16, and macOS Ventura. A sort of last resort to prevent any risk of cyberattack as much as possible, the “ Lockdown mode announced by Apple on July 6 deeply locks certain services, applications and features of the device on which it is activated in order to significantly strengthen the level of security.
A mode you will probably never use…
As Apple points out, the vast majority of users will never have to use it. This mode is intended only for those who may be exposed to serious threats to their digital security, through sophisticated attacks that do not concern ordinary mortals.
© Apple
Once activated, the mode Lockdown acts among other things on the messages application, but also on web browsing, Apple services, or even wired connections. Here is the detail of the lock that will be allowed by this new mode at its launch:
- Messages: Most message attachments other than pictures are blocked. Some features, such as link preview, are disabled.
- Web browsing: Some complex web technologies, such as just-in-time (JIT) JavaScript compilation, are disabled unless the user excludes a trusted site from lockdown mode.
- Apple Services: Incoming invitations and service requests, including FaceTime calls, are blocked if the user has not previously sent a call or request to the initiator.
- Wired connections to a computer or accessory are blocked when iPhone is locked.
- Configuration profiles cannot be installed and the device cannot enroll in mobile device management (MDM) when lockdown mode is enabled.
Apple promises to strengthen this mode over time
In its press release, Apple promises to gradually strengthen its new mode Lockdown to enable it to be even more effective in its role of prevention. To do this, the firm intends to rely on feedback from security researchers, but not only.
As specified NeowinApple’s bounty program now has a new section for researchers who find flaws in the mode Lockdown. And to motivate searches, all bounties are doubled. The most severe vulnerabilities can earn up to $2 million if discovered and reported through this program.
Sources: Neowin, Apple
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