Users should proactively equip their phones with simple security settings to prevent unfortunate incidents like theft. By doing so, the process of finding a lost iPhone becomes much simpler.
Lost your iPhone? Take these actions beforehand
If you're unsure how to access security settings, here are 5 quick tips before your iPhone goes missing courtesy of Mytour.
Preventive measures for a lost iPhone
1. Always set a screen lock password
Setting a screen lock password is the simplest way every user should implement to safeguard information on their phone in case of an iPhone loss. Apple currently provides users with two basic screen lock options: passcode and fingerprint.
If a thief is unable to unlock the screen or deliberately attempts to restore factory settings, your iPhone will immediately be locked and rendered unusable.
2. Enable two-factor authentication for your Apple ID
Every iPhone is associated with an iCloud account. If, unfortunately, your iCloud account or password is compromised, the intruder can easily take control of your device.
However, you can easily prevent this by enabling two-factor authentication for your Apple ID. Each time someone logs in or edits account information, the device will immediately send an authentication code to the trusted phone number you've set up beforehand, requiring confirmation once again. Learn how to enable 2-step verification for Apple ID here.
3. Utilize the SIM lock feature on iPhone
Another layer of protection to consider in case of a lost iPhone is enabling the Sim lock. With this method, when the perpetrator restarts the device, the iPhone will prompt for the Sim password. Even if transferred to other devices, the Sim will still require the passcode.
This adds an additional security layer to your phone, preventing the thief from using your phone number for fraudulent activities.
4. Activate mobile payment on your phone
Many people feel uneasy about activating Mastercard or Visa payments on their phones, but in reality, it's an effective way to safeguard a lost iPhone. When attempting to change the Apple ID password or make purchases on the phone, the thief is forced to provide additional payment card information.
A small tip: record security questions and keep information like the Apple ID registration email and phone number different from commonly used ones.
5. Lock your iPhone using iCloud's Lost Mode
To proactively prevent potential issues when iPhone is lost, you can use the Find My iPhone feature on the iCloud homepage. With this tool, you can locate your iPhone on a map or enable Lost Mode to remotely erase all data on the device.
However, there is a small drawback: the function only works when your iPhone is unlocked and in online mode.
Here is one of the tips shared by Mytour to enhance protection and prevent iPhone theft. Of course, to completely avoid unfortunate incidents, pay attention to safeguarding your personal belongings and stay vigilant, especially in places with poor security.
