iPhone theft remains a widespread issue, with millions of devices stolen each year in the U.S. alone. Thieves often target iPhones not just for the resale value, but for the sensitive personal data they can contain. If a phone is not properly secured, criminals may gain access to bank accounts, personal records, and other information that can lead to identity theft. The combination of physical device theft and data exploitation makes it critical for users to take security seriously.

To protect against both theft and identity fraud, iPhone users should take several key steps. First, enable Stolen Device Protection from Apple, which requires two-factor authentication, a secure passcode, biometric login (Face ID or Touch ID), and Significant Locations enabled in Location Services. This adds a critical layer of security—even if a thief knows your passcode.

Use a strong passcode and avoid simple combinations. For added protection, turn off Wallet access when locked by navigating to Settings > Face ID & Passcode and toggling off “Wallet” under “Allow Access When Locked.”

Lastly, avoid storing unencrypted passwords on your phone and disable autofill by going to Settings > Passwords > Autofill Passwords and switching off the autofill option. These precautions help prevent unauthorized access and protect your personal data even if your iPhone is stolen.