Set a longer passcode

YouriPhones passcode can easily be used against you.

Its one of the best anti-theft features on your iPhone.

Although its enabled by default, you should peek if its not been disabled accidentally.

Go toSettingsand tap your name at the top.

Then, visitFind My > Find My iPhoneand enable everything on that page.

To do this, youll have to set up an automation using ApplesShortcutsapp.

First, go toSettings > Focusand tap the+button to create a new focus.

Call it something like Lock Screen.

Theres no need to enable any triggers for this automation.

bring up the Shortcuts app, and go to theAutomationtab and selectCreate Personal Automation.

Scroll down to theFocussection and selectLock Screen, then tapWhen Turning On, and hitNext.

Lastly, disableAsk Before Runningand tapDone.

Its a good way to quickly lock your iPhone to make it harder for thieves to reset it.

This will protect your data and make it harder for thieves to erase and sell your equipment.

No matter what happens,do not remove the machine from your Apple ID.

Thieves can use this functionality tobuy expensive goods with your stolen credit card, among other things.

you could prevent this by disabling a few features.

Go toSettings > Notifications > Show Previewsand selectWhen Unlocked.

Then, go toSettings > Siri & Searchand disableAllow Siri When Locked.

Review all options here and disable everything that can be accessed when your phone is locked.

Thieves wont be able to open these apps without knowing your passcode.

It lets you disallow certain options, as weve described in the linked piece.

Use this to your advantage by going toSettings > Screen Time > Use Screen Time Passcode.

After that, go toContent & Privacy Restrictionsin Screen Time, and disallowAccount Changes.

When thieves put your SIM card on another phone, theyll need this PIN to unlock the SIM card.

If thats not an issue, you might go toSettings > Mobile Data > SIM PINand enable this feature.

Be sure to store this PIN in a safe place in case you forget it.

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