Apple Watch is getting Lockdown mode with watchOS 10

Apple introduced Lockdown Mode as an optional security setting with iOS 16 upgrade, but the feature is now expanding to Apple Watch with watchOS 10. For your information, this capability secures your data from highly targeted cyberattacks that often make their way via journalists, activists, or government employees.

So far, the feature is only available for iPhone devices and has reached a small number of users. However, with iOS 17 and the biggest watch upgrade – watchOS 10, the tech giant is expanding the lockdown mode to more Apple wearable devices.

Eventually, you can enable the mode on an iPhone and can even turn it on, on a paired Apple Watch. The manufacturer noted that this feature provides an extreme level of security with strict limitations on apps, websites, and other features.

Here is how the functionality protects your data:

• In the Messages app, most message attachment types other than images are blocked, and some features like link previews are unavailable.
• Incoming FaceTime calls from people you have not previously called are blocked. Incoming invitations for other Apple services from people you have not previously invited are also blocked.
• In Safari and other WebKit browsers, some complex web technologies and browsing features, including just-in-time (JIT) JavaScript compilation, are disabled unless the user excludes a trusted site from Lockdown Mode.
• Shared albums are removed from the Photos app, and shared album invitations are blocked.
• When a device is locked, wired connections with other devices/accessories are blocked.
• Configuration profiles cannot be installed, and the device cannot enroll into mobile device management (MDM), while Lockdown Mode is turned on.

In a recent press release, the American tech giant said that the ultimate feature will also show up safer wireless connectivity defaults, media handling, media sharing defaults, sandboxing, and network security optimizations.

(Source)