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With iOS 26.4, Apple is introducing a security-related change that affects all iPhone users. Protection for stolen devices will now be activated automatically. This makes a previously optional feature a standard part of the system. The update aims to better protect sensitive data if an iPhone is stolen. Personal information, saved passwords, and financial data are of particular concern.
Apple introduced the protection for stolen devices back in 2023. This was prompted by reports of a new form of iPhone theft. Perpetrators were specifically observing their victims to spy on the device passcode. The iPhone was then stolen.
Using the known passcode, criminals could make extensive changes. These included accessing saved passwords, emptying bank accounts, and disabling "Find My" functionality. This made it difficult for victims to locate or lock the stolen device.
Protection for stolen devices was introduced in response to this method. Previously, however, it had to be manually activated in the settings under "Face ID & Passcode". With iOS 26.4, this step is no longer necessary.
What's changing with iOS 26.4
Starting with iOS 26.4, protection for stolen devices is enabled by default. This means that additional security mechanisms are automatically activated as soon as the update is installed.
The goal is to prevent a stolen iPhone from being fully controlled using only the passcode.
Additional biometric authentication
Anti-theft protection requires mandatory authentication via Face ID or Touch ID for certain actions. In these cases, a passcode is insufficient. Bypassing this protection using a passcode is not possible.
Actions that absolutely require Face ID or Touch ID
Biometric authentication is the only permitted method for the following functions:
- Viewing or using passwords or passkeys stored in the iCloud Keychain
- Applying for a new Apple Card
- Displaying a virtual Apple Card
- Disabling "Lost" mode in "Find My"
- Delete all content and settings
- Performing certain Apple Cash and Savings actions in Wallet
- Using payment methods saved in Safari
- Using your iPhone to set up a new device
In all these cases, the passcode cannot be used as a replacement for Face ID or Touch ID.
Security delay for particularly sensitive changes
For even more critical changes, iOS 26.4 introduces an additional layer of protection. This involves a one-hour security delay and requires two separate biometric authentications. This rule applies to the following actions:
- Changing your Apple ID password
- Updating certain security settings of the Apple ID account, including:
• Adding or removing a trusted device
• Add or remove a trusted phone number - Adding or removing a recovery key
- Adding or removing a recovery contact
- Changing the iPhone passcode
- Adding or removing Face ID or Touch ID
- Deactivating "Find My"
- Disable protection for stolen devices
The security delay is intended to prevent perpetrators from changing security-relevant settings immediately after the theft.
Adapting to familiar places
One feature of the protection system remains in iOS 26.4. In familiar locations, such as at home, the security delay can be deactivated. There, usage is possible without any waiting time.
Outside of these known locations, the additional security measures activate automatically. This ensures convenient everyday use while providing a higher level of security when traveling.
Availability of iOS 26.4
iOS 26.4 is currently available exclusively to developers. A public beta version is expected soon. Apple plans the official release in the spring.
iOS 26.4 makes anti-theft protection a mandatory feature
With iOS 26.4, stolen device protection becomes a standard feature on all iPhones. Automatic activation ensures that this additional layer of security is never overlooked.
Mandatory biometric authentication and a one-hour security delay for particularly sensitive changes significantly hinder the misuse of stolen devices. This update thus strengthens the protection of personal data, financial information, and key account settings. The best products for you: Our Amazon Storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Shutterstock / Karlis Dambrans)
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