The iPhone feature few people know about: Lockdown Mode and its downsides

The iPhone has a little-known security feature called Lockdown Mode. It was brought up again after a story in the US: Washington Post journalist Hannah Nathanson had her device seized in a case involving classified documents, but the FBI told the court that it was unable to retrieve data from her iPhone because it was in Lockdown Mode.

What that mode is

Apple describes Lockdown Mode as an "extreme" (extreme) level of protection against very rare and sophisticated cyberattacks - such as spyware. The company emphasises: most people don't need it, it's designed for those who might be targeted because of their job or status (journalists, activists, etc.).

How it works

The meaning is simple: the phone "cuts" some of the features through which you would normally try to hack the device. Because of this, some things start to work worse or are disabled altogether.

What changes (in general):

• Messages (Messages): many attachments, links, and link previews are blocked.

• FaceTime: incoming calls may be blocked if they are unfamiliar contacts (haven't connected before).

• Websites: some pages may load slower or appear "cropped" because complex web technologies are blocked.

• Photos: sending photos may remove geolocation and shared albums may temporarily disappear.

• Connections: stricter with connections to devices/accessories and some networks.

Whether Apple can "switch off" this mode remotely is up for debate

The piece emphasises Apple's position: the company has previously refused to do a "back door" for enforcers and has opposed deliberately weakening device security.

How to enable Lockdown Mode

You need to update your device and enable the mode separately on each device (iPhone/iPad/Mac).
On iPhone: Settings → Privacy & Security → Lockdown Mode, then you will need to enter your passcode and the device will reboot.

Why password is more important than Face ID/Touch ID

The article explains the logic: biometrics can sometimes be attempted to be used forcibly (e.g. by putting a finger on it), while a passcode is usually "harder to beat out" legally. In the Nathanson story, the case files discussed that accessing biometrics can be easier than getting a passcode.

Cons

Lockdown Mode can interfere with everyday life: some apps and websites perform worse, and certain activities (the article gives an example of everyday scenarios) may require the mode to be temporarily disabled.