Apple announces a new lock mode with an “extreme” level of security in iOS 16 and macOS Ventura

Today Apple saw fit to announce a new Lock Mode for iOS 16, iPadOS 16, and macOS 13 Ventura. The new mode comes with improved security features on various platforms. The new security feature is geared towards a small number of users with the risk of “highly targeted cyberattacks”. Scroll down to read more details on the subject.

Apple has announced a new lockdown mode for iOS 16, iPadOS 16, and macOS Ventura to prevent targeted cyberattacks

Apple’s new Lockdown Mode on iOS 16 and macOS 13 Ventura will protect users from cyberattacks by private companies with state-sponsored spyware such as activists, government employees, and other organizations. The new Lock Mode is enabled in iOS 16, iPadOS 16, and macOS 13 Ventura beta 3. Additionally, the feature will be available to all users later this year.

Although the new security mode is intended for specific users, anyone can enable it from the device settings. You can find the option in the Privacy and Security section of Settings on iPhone and System Settings on Mac. Lockdown mode will provide enhanced security by limiting the functionality of various features like apps and websites. Check out the lock mode protections below.

• Build organizational capacity and increase on-the-ground coordination of new and existing civil society cybersecurity research and advocacy groups.
• Support the development of standardized forensic methods to detect and confirm spyware infiltration that meet evidentiary standards.
• Enable civil society to partner more effectively with device manufacturers, software developers, commercial security firms, and other relevant businesses to identify and address vulnerabilities.
• Educate investors, journalists and policy makers about the global mercenary spyware industry.
• Strengthen the capacity of human rights defenders to identify and respond to spyware attacks, including security audits for organizations facing increased threats on their networks.

Apple says it will add more protections to Lockdown Mode in the future. The company has also enhanced its Security Bounty program to reward researchers who find lockdown mode bypasses to improve protections. Bounties will be doubled for qualifying results in lockdown mode with a maximum limit of $2 million. You can check more details here.

Apple is also working to support organizations that aim to prevent targeted cyberattacks. We will share more details on the subject as soon as further details become available. That’s all there is to it, folks. Share your valuable insights with us in the comment section below.