Apple Introduced Lifesaving Security Features:
Apple’s iOS release this week included several important improvements. iOS 16.3 is available for iPhone 8 and later devices.
Even with two-factor authentication, a password cannot protect your data. Apple ID & iCloud accounts now support security keys in iOS 16.3. Unless you use Windows.
Security keys replace Apple’s six-digit two-factor authentication credentials, which are supplied through SMS or prompted on eligible devices. Account security is enhanced by requiring a physical key to log in. That prevents hacking, phishing, and social engineering.
Losing the key might permanently lock your account. Apple needs two security keys in case one is lost or stolen. Keep your spare secure and memorable. Apple allows six keys per account. Discover Apple’s life saving feature. iOS 16.3 adds 5 features.
Apple’s New ‘Emergency SOS’:
After upgrading your iPhone, you may now secretly dial 9-1-1 or an emergency number.
According to The Daily Mail, enabling the capability through a slider might be “useful in instances when an attacker could be present.” This prevents your phone from flashing or counting down while contacting 9-1-1. “Tweaked to lessen the likelihood of mistakenly activating it,” the magazine says of the Emergency SOS service.
IOS 16.3 Features:
Open your device’s “settings” app, go to “general,” and choose “software update” to download iOS 16.3.
The revamped “Emergency SOS” includes improved security keys (a physical device/second layer of two-factor way authentication), support for the second-generation Homepod speaker, advanced data protection (end-to-end encryption for iCloud data), and a special wallpaper for Black History Month in February 2023!
“Members of Apple’s Black creative community and allies joined together to build this year’s Black Unity Collection and developed the new expressions inspired by the creative process of mosaic, reflecting the vitality of Black communities and the strength of unity,” Apple noted of the iPhone wallpaper.
Security Keys Will be Supported in This IOS:
Security keys will be supported in iOS 16.3, iPadOS 16.3, and MacOS 13.2. Two-factor authentication and two Apple-compatible FIDO security keys are required to start.
However, certain restrictions apply. Setting up a security key on Windows will lock you out of your iCloud account. Child and Managed Apple IDs don’t support security keys either.
Finally, login into an Apple TV, Apple Watch, or Homepod after setup needs an iPhone or iPad with iOS 16.3 or above.
When you log into your Apple account from a new device or browser, change your Apple password, unlock your Apple ID, or add and delete security keys, you’ll require physical access to your security key.
What’s a Security Key?
Security keys are little dongles with unique identifiers. Its digital cryptographic key is required to access an account after pairing it. Many security key manufacturers employ USB, NFC, or Bluetooth.
One has USB-C, one USB-A, and one NFC. A security key is activated by inserting it into a device’s USB port or holding it near the device & pressing a button.
Some security keys include two USB connectors and/or NFC, so use one that works with all your devices.
iPhone And iPad security key setup:
Open Settings.
Tap your Name followed by Password & Security.
Press Add Security Keys.
Follow the on-screen instructions.
Apple suggests checking your Apple ID devices and signing out of any unknown ones. Remove all security keys by following the same steps. This restores six-digit two-factor authentication.
Mac Security Key setup:
Apple > System Settings > Your name
Click Password & Security.
Find the Security Keys option and click Add
Follow the on-screen instructions
Again, Apple recommends reviewing your Apple ID-linked devices and logging out those you don’t wish to use. To return to six-digit two-factor authentication, select Remove All Security Keys.
Security key login instructions.
When entering into Apple sites or services or setting up new devices, you’ll need your Apple ID security keys. Hold a NFC security key near the top of your iPhone (it may include a button) or plug it into a USB port on the device when asked.
Apple ID security key restrictions:
Windows doesn’t support iCloud. Avoid setting up an Apple ID security key if you use Windows PCs and iCloud. Older devices that cannot be upgraded to accept security keys cannot be signed in. As indicated, these older devices might have their own Apple ID.
No child accounts or managed Apple IDs. Security keys are account-specific. Family iPhone-paired Apple Watches are not supported. Apple Watch setup requires your phone.
https://youtu.be/ZqqraWbJWjA
Security key selection:
Apple’s support page lists security key types. USB-C/NFC security keys are excellent. Some keys come with a USB-A to USB-C converter or two USB connectors to connect to any Mac. Security key iPhones support NFC.