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With our ever-increasing reliance on online services, security and privacy are top priorities, and Apple has implemented several security features in its devices. Apple’s efforts continue with Wednesday’s announcement of three new security features to protect users online.
New Apple Features:
- iMessage contact key verification: A method for users to verify the identity of the people they communicate with.
- Electronic keys for Apple ID: Option to require a physical security key to sign in to your Apple ID account.
- Advanced data protection for iCloud: End-to-end encryption when accessing iCloud resources.
In a press release, Apple’s Craig Federighi said, “At Apple, we are unwavering in our commitment to providing our users with the best data protection in the world. We are constantly identifying and addressing emerging threats to their personal data on the device and in the cloud.” The new features will arrive as part of iOS 16.2 and macOS 13.1, which will likely hit devices early next week.
iMessage contact key verification is a feature that users can turn on to let the user know when a conversation in Messages or FaceTime can be monitored by an invisible attacker. The warning will appear when an “extremely advanced adversary” is able to hack into the service and eavesdrop. Users will also be able to compare the contact verification code in person, in FaceTime, or through another secure call. The iMessage contact key verification is in addition to the end-to-end encryption that Apple has always used with iMessage and FaceTime.
Security Keys
Security keys are an addition to the two-factor authentication used to sign in with an Apple ID. Apple 2FA involves logging in with your username and password and then entering a six-digit numeric code that is sent to your trusted devices. Security keys will give users the ability to use a third-party hardware security key for 2FA authentication. The key can be inserted into the port or wireless NFC can be used.
Advanced data protection for iCloud
iCloud 14 “categories of sensitive data” use end-to-end encryption, including iCloud Keychain and Health. Advanced Data Protection for iCloud will expand the scope of encryption to 23 categories, including iCloud backups, notes, and photos. If you subscribe to Advanced Data Protection, the only iCloud features not covered are iCloud Mail, Contacts, and Calendar, which must communicate with global Apple systems.
These features will be available in the US with the full release of iOS 16.2 and macOS 13.1 later this month. Apple says a global rollout is planned for early 2023.