Apple deploys Lockdown mode in iOS 16 and macOS 13 against cyber attacks
Apple has presented a Lockdown mode for iOS 16, iPadOS 16 and macOS 13. People who are concerned about targeted cyber attacks can turn it on. It limits the functionality of a device and therefore reduces the possibility for attacks.
The mode restricts functions that attackers use to attack devices. For example, message attachments are disabled in the Messages app and just-in-time JavaScript compilation is not possible in the browser, says Apple.
The option is for a small group of users dealing with sophisticated cyber attacks. This concerns protection against spyware from, among others, the NSO Group, against which Apple has a lawsuit pending. It also involves other country-sponsored spyware attacks, the manufacturer says.
The Lockdown mode will be found in the Privacy & Security section of the Settings menu. It will be included with the release of iOS 16, iPadOS 16, and macOS 13 this fall.
| Restrictions Lockdown Mode | |
| App | Limits |
| Safari | “Certain” advanced web techniques such as JIT compilation of JavaScript are blocked |
| Face time | Incoming calls from unknown numbers are blocked |
| photos | Incoming shared folder invitations are blocked |
| Management | New configuration profiles and MDM enrollments are impossible (current ones are kept) |
| To inform | Attachments other than photos are blocked. Link previews don’t work either |
Apple Lockdown Mode