Lockdown Mode makes iPhone use more restrictive to reduce exposure to highly sophisticated targeted cyberattacks; it is not simply a stronger version of every ordinary security setting. It limits selected messaging, browsing, connectivity and Apple service features, while standard security settings are individual controls configured for particular needs. Apple says most people will never be targeted by the attacks Lockdown Mode is designed to address.
What “standard security settings” means
Apple does not offer a formal security tier called “standard security settings.” Here, the phrase means normal iPhone operation with built-in protections configured individually. Lockdown Mode is different: when switched on, it applies a broad set of restrictions across multiple apps, services and connections. It does not replace every other security control, and Apple does not describe it as necessary for everyone.
Apple calls Lockdown Mode “an optional, extreme protection” for the very few individuals who might be personally targeted by sophisticated digital threats such as mercenary spyware. Its purpose is to reduce potential attack surface, not to make a device invulnerable or guarantee that every attack will fail. See Apple’s About Lockdown Mode and its Lockdown Mode security for Apple devices.
What changes when Lockdown Mode is on
The restrictions affect several parts of ordinary iPhone use. The exact behavior is documented by Apple in its Lockdown Mode guide.
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Messages and attachments
Most attachment types are blocked, with exceptions for certain images, video and audio. Some message features, including links and link previews, are unavailable.
Web browsing
Some complex web technologies are blocked. As a result, certain websites may load more slowly or fail to work correctly; web fonts may be missing, and images may not appear.
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FaceTime and Apple services
Incoming FaceTime calls are blocked unless you have called that person within the previous 30 days. Some invitations and service requests are blocked unless you previously initiated contact. SharePlay, FaceTime Live Photos and some other experiences are unavailable. Incoming calls also will not ring on a paired Apple Watch while the iPhone is in Lockdown Mode.
Photos and sharing
Location information is excluded when you share photos. Shared Albums are removed from the Photos app, and the protected device cannot accept new Shared Album invitations.
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Wireless and wired connections
When Lockdown Mode is enabled, the device disconnects from non-secure Wi-Fi networks and will not automatically join them. On iPhone and iPad, 2G and 3G support is turned off. To connect an iPhone or iPad to an accessory or another computer, you must first unlock it.
Profiles and device management
You cannot install new configuration profiles or newly enroll the device in mobile device management (MDM) or device supervision while Lockdown Mode is on. Existing management remains in place.
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What continues to work
Phone calls and plain-text messages continue to work. Emergency features, including SOS emergency calls, are not affected.
How Lockdown Mode differs from other protections
Choose a control based on the threat you are trying to address. These features have different purposes, rather than being interchangeable levels of one security scale.
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| Concern | Relevant control | What it does | Scope and tradeoff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Highly sophisticated targeted cyberattacks | Lockdown Mode | Restricts selected system and app behavior to reduce potential attack surface. | Broad restrictions change how multiple services and connections work. |
| A thief has the iPhone and knows its passcode | Stolen Device Protection | For certain actions, requires Face ID or Touch ID without passcode fallback; some sensitive changes can require a delay and another biometric check. | Focused on theft-related access and changes, with some behavior depending on familiar location or the “Always” setting. |
| General device, account or sharing protection | Individual built-in security settings | Let you configure specific protections for accounts, device access and sharing. | Separate controls; they do not collectively reproduce Lockdown Mode. |
Stolen Device Protection addresses passcode compromise in a theft scenario, not the same threat as targeted spyware. Apple’s Stolen Device Protection guide explains its requirements and behavior.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Should you turn on Lockdown Mode?
For most people, Lockdown Mode’s day-to-day restrictions are unlikely to be warranted: Apple says most people will never be targeted by attacks of this nature. Consider it if you have a credible reason to believe you may be personally targeted by sophisticated digital attacks. For a concern about someone stealing your iPhone and knowing its passcode, Stolen Device Protection is the more directly relevant feature.
Before enabling Lockdown Mode, weigh its broad restrictions against your needs. A website, app or contact can be excluded when necessary, but doing so reduces protection; Apple advises limiting exclusions to trusted exceptions. Keep iPhone and other supported devices updated, since Apple recommends the latest software for the complete set of Lockdown Mode protections.
How to enable Lockdown Mode on iPhone
- Update your iPhone to the latest available software.
- Open Settings > Privacy & Security > Lockdown Mode.
- Tap Turn On Lockdown Mode, review the information, and confirm.
- Tap Turn On & Restart, then enter your passcode when prompted.
Lockdown Mode is available on iPhone with iOS 16 or later. It must be enabled separately on iPhone, iPad and Mac. Turning it on for iPhone also enables it on a paired Apple Watch running watchOS 10 or later. Apple recommends enabling it on all supported devices for complete protection.
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Stolen Device Protection requirements
Stolen Device Protection requires iOS 17.3 or later, a device passcode, Face ID or Touch ID, Apple Account two-factor authentication, Find My and relevant Location Services settings. By default, its extra requirements apply away from familiar locations; choosing Always applies them everywhere. Some actions require biometric authentication with no passcode fallback, while certain critical changes require authentication, a one-hour security delay and another biometric authentication. Consult Apple’s Stolen Device Protection guide for the applicable settings and actions.
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