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How to Secure Your iPhone, iPad, or Mac With Lockdown Mode

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How to Secure Your iPhone, iPad, or Mac With Lockdown Mode

The average iPhone owner should not have to worry about a coordinated cyberattack against them. But in some cases, cybercriminals and other parties will deploy targeted attacks against specific individuals, including government officials, human rights advocates, and journalists. Apple’s Lockdown Mode allows victims to respond in kind to protect themselves.

Available for iPhone, iPad, and Mac, Lockdown Mode was introduced with the release of iOS 16, iPadOS 16, and macOS Ventura. This optional feature effectively disables or restricts certain features and settings on your device. The goal is to prevent malware, spyware, and other threats from exploiting or compromising your personal information.

Though Apple stresses that most people should never have to take the drastic step of enabling Lockdown Mode, knowing how to use this feature is important in case you are in a group or profession that could be targeted by spyware and other threats.


What Does Lockdown Mode Do?

Lockdown mode received attention in 2022 when it thwarted an attack on a human rights group from spyware vendor NSO Group. The PwnYourHome exploit was able to secretly infect the Apple Messages app and tamper with Apple’s HomeKit software. But users with Lockdown Mode enabled received warnings and were able to avoid becoming victims.

So what does the feature actually do? According to Apple, enabling Lockdown mode affects specific apps and features in the following ways:

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  • Messages: Other than certain images, video, and audio, most types of message attachments are blocked. Links and link previews, among other features, will also not work. Phone calls, plain text messages, and SOS emergency calls will continue to work. 

  • Web browsing: Certain complex web technologies are blocked, an action that could cause some websites to run slower or not work at all. Web fonts will also not display and images may not appear.

  • FaceTime: All incoming FaceTime calls are blocked unless you have already called the person on the other end.

  • Apple services: Apple’s own services are limited so that incoming invitations, such as those to manage a home in the Home app, are blocked unless you have previously invited that person.

  • Shared Albums: Shared albums are removed from the Photos app, while new Shared Album invitations are blocked. You can still view shared albums on other devices that don’t have Lockdown Mode enabled. After turning off Lockdown Mode, you will need to turn on Shared Albums again in your device settings.

  • Device connections: To connect your iPhone or iPad to an accessory or another computer, the device will need to be unlocked. To connect your Mac laptop with an Apple chip(Opens in a new window) to an accessory, you need to unlock your Mac and explicitly approve the action.

  • Configuration profiles: You cannot install configuration profiles or enroll your device in Mobile Device Management or device supervision.


Enable Lockdown Mode on an iPhone or iPad

Tap Turn On Lockdown Mode


(Credit: Lance Whitney/Apple)

In order to enable Lockdown Mode on your mobile device, you must be running iOS 16 or iPadOS 16. Open Settings > General > Software Update to check. You’ll be told that your OS is up to date or prompted to install the latest update.

To turn on Lockdown Mode on an iPhone or iPad, go to Settings > Privacy & Security. Swipe down to the bottom of the screen and tap the Lockdown Mode option. Tap Turn On Lockdown Mode to get things started.

Tap Turn On & Restart


(Credit: Lance Whitney/Apple)

The next screen will go over how Lockdown Mode will affect your device. At the bottom, tap Turn On Lockdown Mode. A confirmation message pops up asking if you want to confirm. Tap Turn On & Restart and enter your passcode to make your iPhone or iPad restart.

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Try using the restricted features


(Credit: Lance Whitney/Apple)

Sign back in to your device to see what features and functions are disabled or restricted with Lockdown Mode is in effect. As you can see, Screen Time will stop working, certain message will be unable to open, and incoming FaceTime calls will be blocked.

When you are ready to turn off Lockdown Mode, go back to Settings > Privacy & Security and tap Lockdown Mode. Tap Turn Off Lockdown Mode and then tap Turn Off & Restart. Enter your passcode to restart your device.

Turn off Lockdown Mode


(Credit: Lance Whitney/Apple)

Once your device has been restarted, sign back in and see that the features that were once disabled or limited are now working properly again.

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Enable Lockdown Mode on a Mac

Click the button for Turn On & Restart


(Credit: Lance Whitney/Apple)

To try Lockdown Mode on your Mac, make sure you are running macOS Ventura or higher. To update from a previous version, click the Apple menu icon and select About this Mac. Click the button for Software Update and then click the Upgrade Now button.

To enable Lockdown Mode, go to System Settings and select Privacy & Security. Scroll down the screen and click the Turn On button next to Lockdown Mode. Confirm the action with your password or Touch ID, then click the Turn On & Restart button.

Try using the restricted features


(Credit: Lance Whitney/Apple)

Sign back in to your Mac to see that many of the features on your computer have been restricted or disabled completely. For instance, you can’t open certain messages while in Lockdown Mode.

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Turn off Lockdown Mode


(Credit: Lance Whitney/Apple)

To turn off Lockdown Mode, go back to System Settings > Privacy & Security. Scroll down the screen and click the Turn Off button next to Lockdown Mode. Confirm the action with your password or Touch ID. Then click the Turn Off & Restart button.

Sign back in to see that the features and actions that were restricted by Lockdown Mode have now been lifted so everything should now work as intended again.

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The next big game from Clash of Clans developer Supercell launches in May

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The next big game from Clash of Clans developer Supercell launches in May

Supercell doesn’t release a lot of games, but the studio’s mobile releases tend to be big hits. Think Clash of Clans, Brawl Stars, and Clash Royale. Now, the developer is gearing up for its next major release: Squad Busters, which will be out globally on both Android and iOS on May 29th.

It’s a competitive multiplayer game, but one on a larger scale than a typical mobile release. In each match, 10 players compete to collect the most gems while building up a squad of computer-controlled characters. It’s sort of like a simplified MOBA: you move your team around fighting minions, earning cash that lets you improve and grow your squad before you eventually start fighting other players and going for the big gem pile in the middle of the map. It also has a bit of a Smash Bros. vibe, as the cast of characters are all pulled from popular Supercell games.

The studio is known for experimenting with different games and genres, and it’s also known for not moving forward with titles that it doesn’t think will become a Clash-level hit — which means the developer seems to have a lot of faith in Squad Busters, which is currently in soft launch in a number of territories, including Canada, Mexico, Spain, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Singapore.

“Our dream is to create great games that as many people as possible play for years and that are remembered forever,” Supercell CEO Ilkka Paananen said in a statement. “Huge credit to the Squad Busters team — it’s already apparent that the game has such high potential, making it our first company game launch since Brawl Stars in 2018.”

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This off-road teardrop trailer adds luxury camping to the most remote locations

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This off-road teardrop trailer adds luxury camping to the most remote locations

Are you looking for a camper that breaks away from the conventional teardrop design and blends functionality with sleek aesthetics? Meet the Kimberley Kube. 

This innovative camper challenges the norms with its unique rectangular profile, flat roofline and vertical rear end.

By integrating the smooth composite construction of Kimberley’s Kruiser line with the enclosed form of the Karavan, the Kube offers a compact yet surprisingly spacious design. 

CLICK TO GET KURT’S FREE CYBERGUY NEWSLETTER WITH SECURITY ALERTS, QUICK VIDEO TIPS, TECH REVIEWS AND EASY HOW-TO’S TO MAKE YOU SMARTER

Kube camper. (Kimberley Kampers)

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Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a long adventure, the Kube brings a fresh perspective to teardrop campers, providing eye-catching design without sacrificing space or functionality.

KIMBERley kube 2

Kube camper. (Kimberley Kampers)

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Built for rugged roads

True to Kimberley’s heritage of robust, trail-ready caravans, the Kube is not just another pretty face. It’s built to tackle the harshest of terrains, equipped with a molded thermoplastic-composite body shell, a 100% recycled ArmaPET plastic floor and a sturdy hot-dipped galvanized steel chassis.

Complementing its tough build are 16-inch steel wheels, custom air springs, off-road racing mono-tube shocks and hydraulic override disc brakes, ensuring that it can handle even the most challenging off-road conditions.

Kube camper. (Kimberley Kampers)

MORE: DISCOVER THE FUTURE OF RVING WITH THE ELECTRIC TRANSFORMER HOUSE

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Spacious and luxurious interior

Stepping inside the Kube, one is greeted by an interior that rivals a well-appointed hotel room. The trailer stretches 17 feet, providing ample space for a king-sized bed positioned within a mini-greenhouse setup that offers 270-degree views through three large windows and an additional skylight.

Kimberley Kube bed

Kube camper. (Kimberley Kampers)

Storage is ingeniously integrated around and under the bed, ensuring that every inch of space is utilized. The front of the cabin includes a full-width console with storage solutions and an 85-L upright fridge/freezer, enhancing both convenience and comfort.

Outdoor living enhanced

Kimberley understands that camping is about engaging with the outdoors. The Kube features a slide-out outdoor kitchen accessible from a hatch at the rear, equipped with a dual-burner stove, sink and dedicated prep area.

Kimberley Kube exterior

Kube camper. (Kimberley Kampers)

This kitchen setup allows for comfortable outdoor dining under the awning, facilitated further by a stainless steel breakfast table that attaches to the kitchen unit.

Kimberley Kube exterior 2

Kube camper. (Kimberley Kampers)

Additionally, the Kube offers the luxury of hot showers, thanks to a Webasto diesel water heater, with the option to add an ensuite shower/toilet tent for complete privacy.

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25 CAMPING ESSENTIALS YOU NEED FOR VENTURING OUT INTO THE WOODS

Kimberley Kube rack view

Kube camper. (Kimberley Kampers)

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Tailored to technology and comfort

The Kube is prepared for any adventure with advanced technology integrations, such as a 200-Ah lithium battery, extensive LED lighting, optional solar charging and Starlink satellite internet prep.

The inclusion of modern comforts such as air conditioning, an onboard audio/video setup and the ability to stay connected via superfast 4G and GPS technology makes the Kube a standout in its class.

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Kimberley Kube bedroom

Kube camper. (Kimberley Kampers)

MORE: TOP TECH YOU NEED ON RV ROAD TRIPS

What does the Kube camper cost?

With prices starting at approximately $44,675, the Kimberley Kube offers a unique blend of luxury, functionality and ruggedness, making it an ideal choice for adventurers who refuse to compromise on comfort and style.

Kurt’s key takeaways

Whether exploring remote landscapes or enjoying a weekend getaway, the Kube promises an unmatched camping experience. It truly stands out as the “King of the Off-Road.” It’s a trailblazing camper that promises both the thrill of the journey and the pleasures of home, wherever you may roam.

What additional features or customizations would you like to see in future models of the Kimberley Kube? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact

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For more of my tech tips & security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter

Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover.

Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:

Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.

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Zuckerberg says it will take Meta years to make money from generative AI

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Zuckerberg says it will take Meta years to make money from generative AI

The generative AI gold rush is underway — just don’t expect it to create profits anytime soon.

The company is already quite profitable, having grown net income to more than $12 billion on $36.5 billion in revenue in the last quarter alone. But its revenue growth is expected to slow going forward. At the same time, it’s spending more than ever on AI and the metaverse.

“Historically, investing to build these new scaled experiences in our apps has been a very good long-term investment for us and for investors who have stuck with us,” Zuckerberg said on the first quarter earnings call, drawing an analogy to the rollouts of Stories and Reels. “And the initial signs are quite positive here, too. But building the leading AI will also be a larger undertaking than the other experiences we’ve added to our apps, and this is likely going to take several years.”

He said that the Meta AI assistant has been “tried” by “tens of millions of people” since it was made widely available last week, though that’s to be expected given how prominently it’s now featured in areas like the Instagram search box. The real test will be whether Meta AI becomes a product that people come back to often and if lots of people want to use an AI assistant in social media apps.

Looking ahead, Meta sees multiple ways to monetize its assistant, which is free to use right now.

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“There are several ways to build a massive business here, including scaling business messaging, introducing ads or paid content into AI interactions, and enabling people to pay to use bigger AI models and access more compute,” Zuckerberg said. “And on top of those, AI is already helping us improve app engagement, which naturally leads to seeing more ads and improving ads directly to deliver more value.”

A different path than OpenAI

In the next year or so, Zuckerberg suggested that usage of Meta AI could also improve the quality of its ads, which implies that the company will analyze the way people use its assistant to better understand what they’re interested in buying. This approach puts Meta on a different path than OpenAI, which has, so far, resisted advertising as a business model in favor of subscriptions and a nascent enterprise focus.

“I used to think that AR glasses wouldn’t really be a mainstream product until we had full holographic displays,” he said. “But now it seems pretty clear that there’s also a meaningful market for fashionable AI glasses without a display.”

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