Can your iPhone be hacked? Not if this Apple feature is turned on

Apple’s most restrictive security option, Lockdown Mode, remains unbreached since its release in 2022 as sophisticated spyware threats continue to develop worldwide.

In a report by TechCrunch, Apple’s Lockdown Mode remains unbreached as the company is not aware of any successful hacking of iPhones and other Apple devices running Lockdown Mode. “We are not aware of any successful mercenary spyware attacks against a Lockdown Mode-enabled Apple device,” Apple spokesperson Sarah O’Rourke told TechCrunch.

What makes Lockdown Mode different

Introduced as an opt-in feature for high-risk users, Lockdown Mode was designed to counter advanced surveillance tools often deployed against journalists, activists and government officials.

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Unlike conventional security features, Lockdown Mode prioritises protection over usability. It restricts message attachments, disables certain web technologies, and blocks incoming invitations or connection requests from unknown sources. The approach reduces potential entry points for attackers, even if it limits everyday functionality.

The feature was developed in response to the rise of “zero-click” spyware attacks, where devices can be compromised without any user interaction. Tools developed by companies such as NSO Group and Intellexa have been used globally in such operations.

Independent research supports Apple’s claim

Security experts have thus far been supportive of Apple’s claims. In fact, investigations carried out by Amnesty International and Citizen Lab have not found any attacks succeeding on devices running the Lockdown Mode.

In some instances, researchers have noted that the Lockdown Mode has successfully thwarted the attempts made by spyware, such as Pegasus and Predator. The results published by Google researchers indicate that some spyware tools have abandoned the attempts made, possibly because they do not want to get caught.

Apple, however, continues to send out notifications related to the threats in over 150 countries, including India. Thus, while the attacks continue, the effectiveness of the Lockdown Mode is undeniable.

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Not for everyone, but effective for those at risk

Security experts have pointed out that the Lockdown Mode is one of the most aggressive security solutions for the average user. While it is not advisable for everyone, the solution is quite effective for those at risk.

It is safe to say that the strategy employed by Apple, which involves reducing the attack surfaces, has been quite effective.