For Your Eyes Only

There’s a new security feature in town! Here’s what you need to know about Apple’s new iOS 16.2 feature–Advanced Data Protection for iCloud. 

Up until the recent release of the iOS 16.2 software update, iCloud backups haven’t had the comprehensive security feature that is end-to-end encryption. Encryption is a process that protects your data by concealing it through code, so that it is inaccessible without a key. End-to-end encryption ensures that the only people with that key are you and your intended recipient, keeping hackers, third-parties, and even Apple from accessing your data (Preveil).

Advanced Data Protection for iCloud allows you to finally enable end-to-end encryption of your data. Protected data includes your passwords and keychain, Health data, Home data, messages in iCloud (but not iCloud backups), payment information, and much more. Note that iCloud Mail, Contacts, Calendars, Shared Album photos, iWork documents, third-party app data that isn’t already end-to-end encrypted, and some metadata are not encrypted with this updated feature. However, Advanced Data Protection covers all of your most sensitive information, making it a must when it comes to your Apple device’s security settings.

Here’s how to activate it (Apple):

First, make sure you have the following in place:

1. An Apple ID with two-factor authentication

2. A passcode for your device

3. At least one account recovery contact (a contact who can use their Apple device to help you regain access to your account and data if needed) or a recovery key (a 28-character passcode that can help you recover your account and data).

4. Updated software on all of the devices where you’re signed in with your Apple ID.

Once that’s set and ready to go, follow these steps: 

For Your iPhone or iPad

1. Open the Settings app. 

2. Tap your name, then iCloud.

3. Scroll down to Advanced Data Protection, then tap Turn on Advanced Data Protection.

4. Follow the instructions to review recovery methods and enable the feature.

For Your Mac

1. Go to Apple menu > System Settings.

2. Click your name, then iCloud.

3. Click Advanced Data Protection, then Turn On.

4. Follow the instructions to review recovery methods and enable the feature.

Once you’ve turned on Advanced Data Protection, rest easy knowing you and your data are secure. Interested in more security features? Drop us a line!