Apple went big on security and privacy today. The company announced that it will be adding a new security tool called “Lockdown Mode” to the iPhone, the iPad, and the Mac. This feature will protect High-profile users such as journalists, activists, and politicians from targeted cyberattacks. The new tool will prevent attackers from exploiting the vulnerability discovered in Apple’s software.
Cybersecurity has become one of the major issues. There have been cases of agencies and governments targeting the smartphones of high-profile individuals using certain software. For example, Pegasus, a software developed by NSO group, is often used to hack into the phones of people using GIFs, links, and other forms.
The new feature, called Lockdown Mode, will provide protection for a “very small number of users who face grave, targeted attacks,” Apple said Wednesday in a statement. Apparently, the tool will reduce the number of physical and digital ways for an attacker to target a user’s device.
The Cupertino company said the feature is aimed primarily at trying to combat attacks from “spyware” sold by NSO Group and other companies, particularly to government-sponsored groups.
When enabled, the “Lockdown Mode” will block link previews, invitations, and FaceTime calls from unknown users. In addition, it will turn off certain web browsing technology by default, shut down wired connections to computers, and more.
Ivan Krstić, Apple’s head of Security Engineering and Architecture, said, “Apple makes the most secure mobile devices on the market. Lockdown Mode is a groundbreaking capability that reflects our unwavering commitment to protecting users from even the rarest, most sophisticated attacks. While the vast majority of users will never be the victims of highly targeted cyberattacks, we will work tirelessly to protect the small number of users who are.”
Krstić further added, “That includes continuing to design defenses specifically for these users, as well as supporting researchers and organizations around the world doing critically important work in exposing mercenary companies that create these digital attacks.”
The new tool will be optional for users of iOS 16, iPadOS 16, and macOS Ventura. Apple will enhance the capabilities of “Lockdown Mode” and introduce more protections for users.
Related:
