iPhone privacy tip: Powerful security setting returns in iOS 14

August 5, 2020

By Kim Komando

In Apple’s upcoming operating system update, iOS 14, Apple ID Recovery Keys are back. With this feature, you can easily add an extra layer of security to your device to make sure all important, personal data is kept secure and away from the eyes of strangers.

Your phone isn’t the only thing that needs protecting, so does your home. Tap or click here for five security sensors you need to protect your home.

Every day it seems like there’s a new threat to your privacy and security online, so any steps you can take to keep yourself safe and secure are worth taking. But just how can you use an Apple ID Recovery Key to keep yourself safe? Read on for everything you need to know about this helpful upcoming feature.

What are Apple ID Recovery Keys?

In earlier iterations of iOS and iPadOS, there was a feature that allowed you to reset your Apple ID passwords by entering a recovery key. With this feature enabled, you could only change your Apple ID password by using another device already signed in to your Apple ID or by way of entering their recovery key.

This does mean that if you happen to forget or lose access to your recovery key and you do not have access to a device that’s signed in to your Apple ID you can be permanently locked out of your Apple account. If you choose to make use of this feature it’s important to always retain access to your recovery key.

Though Apple’s iOS 14 has not launched yet and is expected to be released in the fall, the return of recovery keys has been spotted in an iOS 14 preview.

If you’re looking for more protection today, however, you’re in luck: Tap or click here to find out how to use iCloud Keychain to keep your phone secure from hackers.

How to use an Apple ID Recovery Key in iOS 14

iOS 14 is still in the beta testing phase, but it does give us a good look at how to use an Apple ID Recovery Key. The process is very simple:

• Open the Settings app.
• Tap on your Name, then Password & Security.
• Scroll down until you see the Recovery Key entry.
• Tap the switch to toggle the feature on. You will be asked to enter your passcode.
• A recovery key will be generated for you. Make sure to save this recovery key somewhere secure!
• Confirm your recovery key by re-entering it on the next screen.

And that’s it! Now if you’d like to reset your Apple ID password you must enter in this recovery key first, or you must change your password on a device where you’re already signed in to your Apple ID.

To reiterate, it’s essential you do not lose or forget this recovery key. Without it you can find yourself completely and permanently locked out of your Apple account!

If you’re concerned about your phone’s security, there are many options out there. Tap or click here for an app that can tell you if your iPhone has been hacked.