Feature Request: Stolen Device Protection

Title: Implement Passcode Requirement for Power Off


Description:


As a committed Apple user, I’d like to propose an enhancement to the security features of iPhones. The idea is to prevent unauthorized users from powering off a stolen iPhone by requiring the device passcode. This feature would help ensure that in case of theft, the Find My iPhone service remains active, and the rightful owner has a better chance of recovering their device.


User Story:

  • As an iPhone user, I want to prevent thieves from powering off my device without entering my passcode.
  • This feature ensures that tracking services like "Find My iPhone" remain operational, enhancing the chances of recovering a stolen device.


Proposed Solution:

  • Introduce a passcode requirement for powering off the device. The power off option should only be accessible after the correct passcode/fingerprint/Face ID is entered.
  • Additionally, if a user attempts to power off the device multiple times without the correct passcode, the iPhone should lock or send an alert to the owner’s other Apple devices linked to the same Apple ID.


Benefits:

  • Enhances device security and theft prevention.
  • Provides users with peace of mind, knowing that their device remains trackable even if it is stolen.
  • Increases deterrence for thieves, as they cannot easily power off the phone to prevent tracking.


Potential Challenges:

  • Ensuring that this feature doesn’t interfere with legitimate use cases, such as emergency situations where the device needs to be powered off.


I believe this feature would significantly enhance the security of iPhones and provide users with more robust protection against theft. Thank you for considering this suggestion.

Windows, Windows 11 (26100)

Posted on Jan 22, 2025 12:09 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jan 22, 2025 12:11 AM

Prakhar7291 wrote:


• Provides users with peace of mind, knowing that their device remains trackable even if it is stolen.

Switched Off? Still traceable: Even if the iPhone is switched off it is findable, see the pic below.



iPhone is findable even when powered off. (iOS 15 and above)


Did you enable Find My network? See the pic below


If yes, read below how it may get located.


The Find My network is an encrypted, anonymous network of hundreds of millions of Apple devices that can help you locate your device.


From the above, I infer that when another device comes in close proximity to your powered-off device the GPS/Bluetooth from both devices will form a network and your device's location info will be displayed to you on your device only. As long as both devices are/have...


  • Find My Network is enabled
  • iPhone 11, 12, 13, 14, and above
  • With iOS 15 and above versions


Set up Find My on your iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, or Mac



Similar questions

2 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jan 22, 2025 12:11 AM in response to Prakhar7291

Prakhar7291 wrote:


• Provides users with peace of mind, knowing that their device remains trackable even if it is stolen.

Switched Off? Still traceable: Even if the iPhone is switched off it is findable, see the pic below.



iPhone is findable even when powered off. (iOS 15 and above)


Did you enable Find My network? See the pic below


If yes, read below how it may get located.


The Find My network is an encrypted, anonymous network of hundreds of millions of Apple devices that can help you locate your device.


From the above, I infer that when another device comes in close proximity to your powered-off device the GPS/Bluetooth from both devices will form a network and your device's location info will be displayed to you on your device only. As long as both devices are/have...


  • Find My Network is enabled
  • iPhone 11, 12, 13, 14, and above
  • With iOS 15 and above versions


Set up Find My on your iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, or Mac



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Feature Request: Stolen Device Protection

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