Lockdown Mode is an optional security feature built into iOS, iPadOS and macOS. Apple designed it to reduce the attack surface used by sophisticated spyware and hacking tools by disabling or heavily restricting features that are commonly exploited.
For most people, Apple’s standard security protections are more than sufficient. Lockdown Mode is intended for users who believe they could be specifically targeted, such as journalists, activists, diplomats or government employees. That said, Apple allows any user to enable it if they want what the company calls an “extreme” level of protection.
Once enabled, Lockdown Mode applies system-wide and remains active until it is manually turned off.
What protections Lockdown Mode enables
When Lockdown Mode is turned on, Apple limits functionality across apps, services and network connections. These restrictions are deliberate and can affect day-to-day usability.
Messages and communication
- Most message attachment types are blocked, except images
- Link previews and certain rich message features are disabled
- Incoming FaceTime calls from people you have never called before are blocked
- Invitations for Apple services from unknown senders are blocked
- Advanced web technologies are restricted
- Just-in-time JavaScript compilation is disabled by default
- These protections apply to Safari and all other browsers that use WebKit
- Trusted websites can be manually excluded if required
Photos and sharing
- Shared albums are removed from the Photos app
- New shared album invitations are blocked
Device connections
- Wired connections to accessories and other devices are blocked while the device is locked
- This helps prevent data extraction or exploitation through physical access
- Configuration profiles cannot be installed
- The device cannot enrol in mobile device management (MDM) while Lockdown Mode is active
- Certain network protocols and services are restricted
How to enable Lockdown Mode on iPhone
Lockdown Mode is turned off by default. You can enable it in just a few steps.
- Open the Settings app
- Scroll down and tap Privacy & Security
- Scroll to the bottom and tap Lockdown Mode
- Tap Turn On Lockdown Mode
- Review the list of restricted features
- Tap Turn On & Restart
After your device restarts, Lockdown Mode will be active.
Go to Settings → Privacy & Security → Lockdown Mode. The toggle will show that Lockdown Mode is turned on Who should use Lockdown Mode
Lockdown Mode is best suited for users facing a high risk of targeted attacks, particularly those working in sensitive roles or regions. For everyday users, the feature may feel overly restrictive, especially given the limitations it places on messaging, browsing and sharing.
Apple’s guidance is clear: enable Lockdown Mode only if you believe you need it. But for those who do, it offers one of the strongest consumer-grade security configurations available on any mainstream device.
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