iPhone urgent ‘spy attack’ warning – exact settings to change to protect device

IPHONE users are being urged to change their privacy settings as spyware attacks rise.

Apple has added new password setting options for iOS 16, analyst Matt Navarra shared on Monday in a tweet.

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Attached to the tweet was an image, displaying the new settings.

There was an option to ‘Choose my own password’ and to ‘edit strong password’.

Users could also select a password with ‘no special characters’ or one that’s ‘easy to type’.

The new settings are part of Apple’s efforts to protect users from malware attacks.

What is malware?

Malware is a malicious file or code that can infect your phone or computer.

It can attack your device through malicious apps, compromised emails, suspicious text messages, or non-secure WiFi connections.

There is a variety of malware that can target your iPhone or Macbook.

Spyware, specifically, can monitor and record your device’s information as well as your activity without your knowledge.

Why are ‘strong’ passwords important?

A good password provides essential protection against unauthorized access to your phone or computer.

The stronger your password, the more protected your device will be from hackers and malicious software.

iPhone makes this easier by suggesting a strong password whenever you sign up for a new account.

Your device then stores the passwords in iCloud Keychain and fills them in for you automatically, so you don’t have to memorize them.

How to use this feature

First head to the new account screen, and enter a new account name.

For supported websites and apps, iPhone suggests a unique, complex password.

You can then choose the suggested password or make up your own.

To allow iPhone to automatically fill in the password for you, tap ‘Yes’ when prompted.

For iPhone to create and store passwords, iCloud Keychain must be turned on.

To do this, go to Settings > [Your name] > iCloud > Keychain.