Apple is developing a new lockdown mode to counter cyberattacks

Apple is announcing a new lockdown mode to protect users from targeted cyberattacks.

Apple announces lockdown mode, an “extreme”level of security designed for “a small number of users who are the target of serious local threats.”It will be available this fall when the Cupertino-based company releases iOS 16, iPadOS 16, and macOS Ventura.

Apple announces new lockdown mode

The Apple brand explains that it created this blocking mode to help protect dangerous profiles that, by their status or job, could be targeted by malware developed by groups such as the NSO Group, to which we owe Pegasus, or other government entities. Activating this blocking mode will significantly limit the functionality of the iPhone, iPad or Mac in order to limit the entry points of possible spyware as much as possible.

For example, in messages, most attachments other than images will be blocked. The same goes for link previews. Blocking mode will prevent incoming FaceTime calls and other invitations, unless you’ve called someone before or shared an invitation. Wired connections from iPhone to a computer or accessory will also be disabled if the device is locked in this manner.

to protect users from narrowly targeted cyberattacks

Apple will also block certain web technologies, such as timely compilation of JavaScript, unless it manually authorizes a specific site. It will also not be possible to install a configuration profile or add a device to mobile device management when lock mode is enabled. The screenshot also states that “some features”are not available at all.

The Cupertino company explains that all these protections will be activated as soon as the lockdown mode is launched. She also plans to add more over time. Apple will also take the opportunity to expand its Security Bounty program. Researchers who find flaws in the lockdown mode and help Apple protect it will be eligible for a reward of up to $2 million.

“Apple offers the most secure mobile devices on the market. Lockdown Mode is an innovative feature that reflects our unwavering commitment to protecting users from the rarest and most sophisticated attacks,” said Ivan Krstic, Apple’s director of engineering and security architecture. “While the vast majority of users will never be the target of such targeted cyberattacks, we will work tirelessly to protect the minority that they are. This includes developing protections specifically for these users, as well as helping researchers and organizations around the world who are doing the critical work of exposing the mercenary corporations that are developing these digital attacks.”

Last year, Apple sued the NSO Group, holding it “responsible”for targeting and spying on its users. The American giant explains that it has allocated $10 million and all the damages received from this lawsuit to organizations that “investigate, expose and prevent narrowly targeted cyber attacks.”These donations will be made through the Ford Foundation’s Dignity and Justice Foundation.