How to Secure Your Apple ID on iPad

Step by step

1. 30 sec

   Enable Two-Factor Authentication

   Open Settings and tap your Name at the top of the sidebar. Tap Sign-In & Security, then select Two-Factor Authentication. If it is currently Off, tap Turn On and follow the on-screen prompts to verify a trusted phone number.

   Note: Two-factor authentication is the single most effective way to protect your account.
2. 1 min

   Review Trusted Devices

   Within the Sign-In & Security menu, scroll down to the list of devices currently signed into your Apple ID. Review the list carefully and tap any device you no longer own or use. Select Remove from Account to revoke its access immediately.

   Note: If you see an unrecognized device, change your Apple ID password immediately.
3. 1 min

   Change Your Apple ID Password

   Navigate to Settings, tap your Name, and select Sign-In & Security. Tap Change Password, enter your iPad passcode, and provide a new, unique password. Use a strong combination of letters, numbers, and symbols that you have not used on other services.

   Note: Use the iCloud Keychain suggestion tool to generate a cryptographically strong password.
4. 1 min

   Add a Recovery Contact

   In the Sign-In & Security section, tap Account Recovery. Tap Add Recovery Contact and choose a trusted person from your contacts. This individual can help you regain access to your account if you ever forget your password.

   Note: This does not give the contact access to your personal files or data.
5. 1 min

   Enable Advanced Data Protection

   Go to Settings, tap your Name, then tap iCloud. Scroll down to Advanced Data Protection and tap the menu to enable it. This applies end-to-end encryption to your iCloud backups and photos, ensuring only you can decrypt the information.

   Note: You must have a recovery key or recovery contact set up before enabling this feature.