Understanding Stolen Device Protection: What iPhone Users Need to Know

At The Lab, we often encounter customers frustrated by a new feature on Apple devices: Stolen Device Protection. While this software is designed to protect your device in the event of theft, it actually creates unnecessary complications for users when attempting to access or recover their own data, particularly during repairs. 

Let’s break down what this software does, how it can impact your device’s repair process, and what you can do to avoid these headaches.

What is Stolen Device Protection?

Stolen Device Protection is a feature specific to newer Apple devices. When enabled, it locks your account if you try to change any of your device’s settings while you’re not connected to a “known” or “home” WiFi network.

In theory, this is a useful security measure if your device is stolen and someone attempts to access it by guessing your passwords. However, the likelihood of this scenario happening is slim to none for most users.

Do You Really Need It?

For most people, this feature is much more of a hassle than it’s worth. Your device’s account is already secure with standard features like Face ID, passwords, and Apple’s built-in security protocols. 

Stolen Device Protection adds an extra layer of complexity, and often, it can be more frustrating than protective, especially when you know all your passwords and credentials but are still locked out of your device simply because your device isn’t connected to your home WiFi.

When It Comes To Repairs…

We see the drawbacks of this feature firsthand at The Lab. When customers drop off a damaged phone for repairs or data recovery, it can become a long and frustrating process if Stolen Device Protection is enabled. 

Even though you may know all of your passwords and have your Face ID ready, the software can still require an hour-long waiting period before allowing access. Worse, if the device isn’t connected to your home WiFi or a known network, the process can be halted completely, leading to further delays.

For instance, if we need to transfer your data and you bring in your device, the entire process could be stalled because it requires your face or another form of verification multiple times, especially if the known WiFi connection is unavailable. This can add hours of unnecessary waiting time for both you and our repair technicians.

Why Apple’s Approach is Frustrating

Unfortunately, Apple doesn’t offer much support when it comes to these issues. They typically shrug it off, leaving customers and repair shops like ours stuck trying to navigate unnecessary security hurdles. 

Apple’s rigid stance means that unless you’ve taken steps to disable this feature, we often can’t help you with recovery or repair services without major delays.

How to Disable Stolen Device Protection

If you don’t want to deal with these frustrating wait times, the good news is that you can turn off Stolen Device Protection. The feature is enabled by default when you purchase a new Apple device or after major updates, so you’ll need to manually disable it.

Here’s how:

1. Go to Settings
2. Select Face ID & Passcode
3. Scroll down to Stolen Device Protection
4. Toggle it OFF

If you choose to leave this feature on, just be aware that you’ll need to disable any known WiFi networks before bringing your device in for repair. Otherwise, you risk long wait times and potential lockouts during the service process.

The Lab Is Always Here To Help

At The Lab, our expert repair technicians are here to help you with all your electronic repair and data recovery needs. 

However, features like Stolen Device Protection can cause unnecessary delays. By turning it off or preparing your device before a repair, you can save time and make the process much smoother for everyone involved. 

If you have questions about this feature or need help disabling it, feel free to reach out to us for help!

Schedule a repair appointment online using the button below, or stop in and see us at our storefront in downtown Warsaw during our regular business hours.

Our Hours

Monday: 10am – 5pm

Tuesday: 10am – 5pm

Wednesday: 12pm – 7pm

Thursday: 10am – 5pm

Friday: 10am – 7pm

Saturday: 10am-2pm

Sunday: Closed