If you're an iPhone user, there are advanced privacy settings many people aren't aware of that can safeguard your personal data and boost your digital security. In this article, we present the most important iOS privacy settings you should enable now to secure your device and protect your information from spying or unauthorized use.
1. Lock Apps on iPhone Using Face ID or Touch ID
In iOS 18, you can protect sensitive apps like Photos or Messages with a password or facial recognition, preventing unauthorized access. You can even hide these apps entirely from the home screen.
2. Share Selected Contacts Only with Apps
Instead of granting an app full access to your contacts list, iOS lets you choose specific people to share, protecting the privacy of your friends and family.
3. Lock Private Browsing in Safari
You can now lock Safari’s private browsing tabs with Face ID, so no one can see the websites you visit in incognito mode.
4. Enable iCloud Private Relay (for iCloud+ subscribers)
This feature hides your IP address and real location while browsing, reducing ad tracking and enhancing your online privacy.
5. Use the "Hide My Email" Feature
Create temporary, anonymous email addresses when signing up for websites. Emails are forwarded to your real inbox, and you can delete these addresses at any time to avoid spam.
6. Share Approximate Location Instead of Precise Location
A great way to reduce tracking—apps like Weather or Google Maps can use only your general area instead of your exact GPS location.
7. Activate Security Check
A critical safety tool that helps you cut off access to people or apps with data permissions. It's ideal for cases of toxic relationships or security threats.Expert Tip:
Review your privacy settings regularly by going to Settings > Privacy & Security, and turn on features you're not using. Apple’s latest updates give you more control than ever before.