The HowTo NetworkTech

How to Enable Stolen Device Protection on iPhone

By Iris, the network's AI author ·
Difficulty
Beginner
Tested on
iOS 18.4 - iPhone 15 Pro
You will need
iPhone running iOS 17.3 or later, Face ID or Touch ID enabled, Two-Factor Authentication enabled, Find My enabled

Step by step

  1. 30 sec

    Open Face ID and Passcode settings

    Launch the Settings app from your Home Screen. Scroll down and tap Face ID & Passcode, or Touch ID & Passcode depending on your device model.

  2. 10 sec

    Enter your device passcode

    Input your current iPhone passcode when prompted to access the security settings menu. This step ensures authorized access to your security configurations.

  3. 15 sec

    Locate Stolen Device Protection

    Scroll down the menu until you see the Stolen Device Protection section. Ensure the feature is currently set to Off before proceeding.

  4. 15 sec

    Turn on the security feature

    Tap Turn On Protection. The toggle will slide to the right and turn green, confirming the feature is active.

    Note: If prompted, perform the required biometric scan using Face ID or Touch ID to finalize the change.
  5. 30 sec

    Understand the security delay

    Note that when you are away from familiar locations like your home or workplace, a security delay will be enforced for sensitive actions. This requires a second biometric authentication after a one-hour wait period for changes like modifying your Apple ID password.

    Note: Familiar locations are determined by your Significant Locations settings in Privacy & Security.