**This Overlooked iOS Feature Might Protect Your iPhone From Attackers**

When it comes to protecting your iPhone from unauthorized use in case it's lost or stolen, Apple has you covered with its anti-theft protections. However, hackers with advanced tools at their disposal may try to break into your device after getting their hands on it. This is where Lockdown Mode, a more advanced defense system built into iOS since version 16, comes in.

Lockdown Mode was unveiled by Apple in July 2022 as an "extreme, optional protection for the very small number of users who face grave, targeted threats to their digital security." Despite its importance, many people may not be aware of what it is or how it works. However, a recent incident involving Washington Post reporter Hannah Natanson's iPhone has brought Lockdown Mode some much-needed recognition.

The FBI seized Natanson's iPhone, which had Lockdown Mode enabled, and despite their best efforts, they were unable to break into the device. The Bureau confirmed that its Computer Analysis Response Team was unable to "extract the device," suggesting that Lockdown Mode may have prevented them from accessing the data. It's unclear how the FBI attempted to gain access to the iPhone, but it's possible that they tried to connect it to a computer or accessory, an action that Lockdown Mode prevents.

So, what is Lockdown Mode and how does it work? The feature can be found in the Settings app's Privacy & Security menu, where it's the last available option. When enabled, Lockdown Mode blocks most attachments sent in Messages, disables link previews, and prevents some websites from working correctly by disabling web features like just-in-time (JIT) JavaScript compilation.

Additionally, Lockdown Mode blocks invitations for Apple services, disables Game Center, and impacts Focus mode functionality. Image sharing is also severely impacted, with FaceTime calls restricted to people you've spoken with in the last 30 days only, and photo sharing affected by the removal of location data from images. The Shared Albums from the Photos app, Live Photos, and SharePlay become unavailable in FaceTime.

A device in Lockdown Mode also can't connect to non-secure Wi-Fi networks and loses 2G and 3G connectivity. While most iPhone users may not need to enable Lockdown Mode on their Apple products, it's essential to be aware that the feature exists and know what it can do in case they become potential targets of attackers with advanced hacking tools.

According to the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), Lockdown Mode is an essential security measure for iPhone users who may be at risk of targeted attacks. CISA has included Lockdown Mode in a list of security guidelines for iPhone users, highlighting its importance for individuals with high-profile private jobs that might encourage corporate espionage, journalism, advocacy work, and public or military service.

While the average user may not need to enable Lockdown Mode on their Apple products, there are specific scenarios where it's crucial. For instance, people fleeing or fearing authoritarian regimes, close to war zones, or whistleblowers can consider turning it on. Additionally, individuals worried about thieves stealing their iPhones during trips to higher-risk locations may want to enable Lockdown Mode temporarily, even if that means reduced performance of various iPhone apps and services for the duration of their travels.