by CEJames & Akira Ichinose
As a Marine (currently on inactive status) we were big on security. As a retired Physical Security Specialist (GS-11) at the NWSC facility I was responsible for security. As a COMSEC manager at a high security military facility I was responsible for safeguarding and managing high security materials. Then there were "other duties as assigned" that dealt with security of both information and other materials. If I didn't learn and understand one thing, it was this: "The weakest link in all of it was the human factor because all security depends solely on each and every individual involved especially since it is a person who creates such security as well as enforces security requirements (as was seen in recent news stories involving certain individuals responsible for using an insecured device called signal)."
I have implemented many of what follows and some I refuse simply due to that human factor so I recommend you implement what you feel secure with to help safeguard your phone, data, and security implementation.
Here is a comprehensive overview of basic iPhone security precautions, focusing on privacy, protection from theft, malware, and surveillance. This guide is based on official Apple documentation and security best practices from cybersecurity experts.
🔐 1. Use a Strong Passcode
• Avoid 4-digit PINs — Use a 6-digit numeric or better yet, an alphanumeric passcode.
• Disable “Simple Passcode” in Settings > Face ID & Passcode > Change Passcode > Passcode Options.
• Why: Prevents brute-force attacks and unauthorized access.
📖 Reference: Apple Support – Passcode settings
🧬 2. Enable Face ID or Touch ID
• Ensures biometric authentication for unlocking your device, purchases, and password autofill.
• Settings > Face ID & Passcode or Touch ID & Passcode.
📖 Reference: Apple Platform Security – Biometrics
🕵️ 3. Turn on Find My iPhone
• Allows you to locate, lock, or erase your phone remotely if lost or stolen.
• Settings > [your name] > Find My > Find My iPhone.
📖 Reference: Apple Support – Find My iPhone
☁️ 4. Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for Apple ID
• Requires both your password and a second device or phone number to sign in.
• Prevents account takeovers even if your password is compromised.
📖 Reference: Apple Support – Two-factor authentication
📲 5. Keep iOS Updated
• Always install the latest iOS version for security patches and bug fixes.
• Settings > General > Software Update > Automatic Updates ON.
📖 Reference: Apple Security Updates
🚫 6. Limit Lock Screen Access
• Disable access to Control Center, Siri, Wallet, and other features from the Lock Screen.
• Settings > Face ID & Passcode > Allow Access When Locked.
📖 Reference: Apple Support – iPhone Lock Screen Access
🔌 7. Use App Privacy Settings
• Limit apps’ access to your location, contacts, photos, microphone, camera, etc.
• Settings > Privacy & Security.
📖 Reference: Apple Support – Privacy settings
🕳️ 8. Disable Ad Tracking and Limit Sharing
• Turn off Personalized Ads and limit apps’ tracking abilities.
• Settings > Privacy & Security > Tracking > Turn off “Allow Apps to Request to Track”.
📖 Reference: Apple Support – App Tracking Transparency
🌐 9. Use a VPN on Public Wi-Fi
• Avoid unsecured public networks or use a reputable VPN to encrypt your internet traffic.
• Prevents packet sniffing and man-in-the-middle attacks.
📖 Reference: National Cybersecurity Alliance – Mobile Security Tips
🧼 10. Avoid Jailbreaking
• Jailbreaking disables iOS sandboxing and security checks, leaving your phone vulnerable to malware and surveillance.
• Stick to the official App Store.
📖 Reference: Apple Security Guide – Jailbreaking Risks
🧠 11. Monitor App Permissions Regularly
• Review app permissions under:
• Settings > Privacy & Security > [Category]
• Check what apps can access Bluetooth, Camera, Microphone, Location, etc.
🔍 12. Enable Automatic App Updates
• Keeps apps patched against known exploits.
• Settings > App Store > App Updates > ON.
📬 13. Be Wary of Phishing and Scam Texts
• Don’t tap suspicious links in messages or emails.
• Use Apple’s built-in SMS filtering:
• Settings > Messages > Unknown & Spam.
📖 Reference: Apple Support – Recognize and avoid phishing
🔓 14. Lock iPhone with USB Accessories
• Prevents data extraction tools like GrayKey from bypassing your lock screen.
• Settings > Face ID & Passcode > “USB Accessories” OFF.
📖 Reference: Apple Platform Security – USB Restricted Mode
🔗 15. Use a Password Manager (iCloud Keychain or 3rd party)
• Strong, unique passwords stored securely.
• Settings > Passwords > AutoFill Passwords > iCloud Keychain.
📖 Reference: Apple Support – iCloud Keychain
🧱 Optional: Advanced Protection Program
• For journalists, activists, or high-risk users, Apple offers an Advanced Data Protection feature.
• End-to-end encrypts even iCloud backups and data.
📖 Reference: Apple – Advanced Data Protection
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