“Familiar Locations” for Stolen Device Protection/Security Delay

I have come across the “Stolen Device Protection” feature several times recently, more specifically the “Security Delay,” while trying to make changes to my Apple ID or iCloud account. While I understand the feature and how to turn it off/on, I don’t understand “familiar locations,” or why I don’t seem to have any records of them existing. My location services are active and I also have my home address in the system however because no records exist I am forced to go through the hour long security delay no matter where I am even with the familiar locations option being selected. I would prefer to keep the Stolen Device Protection on if possible, but without having to go through the delay literally every time, no matter if I’m at home/work or not.


What am I missing? There has to be a reason there are no records listed under the familiar locations feature (which is and has been “on” in the Locations, System menu.) Is there somewhere to input these locations or is it solely based on data that it’s not collecting for some reason??

iPhone 14, iOS 17

Posted on Sep 18, 2024 5:30 PM

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Posted on Sep 18, 2024 5:50 PM

The system, using an unpublished process, figures out your familiar locations by how often and how frequently you are in them. Thus, it’s critical to leave Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on 24/7, leave the phone powered on all the time. It doesn’t use the information in your contacts.

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“Familiar Locations” for Stolen Device Protection/Security Delay

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