Deluge of Cyber Attacks Spurs Apple to Revamp its Security and Privacy Measures

Apple has just unveiled three new security measures that are aimed at safeguarding user data stored in the cloud. This is part of its ongoing endeavor to give users the ability to protect their data even more effectively.

With iMessage Contact Key Verification, people can make sure that they are communicating only with the desired person. Additionally, Security Keys for Apple ID provide the option to require a physical security key for logging into Apple ID accounts. Finally, Advanced Data Protection for iCloud enables users to add an extra layer of security to their iCloud data, including iCloud Backup, Photos, Notes, and more, through end-to-end encryption.

Owing to the fact that the majority of people's daily activities have shifted from face-to-face to online services, customers' vulnerability has increased when using anything technological. The reality is, that at some point or other, certain sensitive information needs to be divulged. This applies to virtually any activity: from registering at a no deposit online casino to storing important documents on iCloud.

Sure, there have been substantial advancements in a bid to safeguard customers' security, but there's always room for improvement. And Apple has acknowledged this. Moreover, many companies are following suit. And this goes far beyond the former GDPR regulations many EU member states had adopted and implemented back in 2018. Although it was certainly a step in the right direction when many websites needed to add a mandatory 'Privacy Policy' page on their site.

The danger of user data becoming compromised is becoming more and more advanced, so Apple has added extra security measures to the range of security functions in their products, making them the safest on the market.

These features include the built-in security associated with their custom chips, outstanding device encryption and data protection, and Lockdown Mode, an extra security option for people like journalists, human rights defenders, and diplomats. Apple is dedicated to reinforcing both device and cloud security and adding new safety measures as time goes on.

iMessage Contact Key Verification

When Apple first introduced iMessage, they included end-to-end encryption so that only the sender and receiver could read the messages. FaceTime also has built-in encryption since its introduction to keep conversations confidential. Now, with iMessage Contact Key Verification, those who are at risk of cyberattacks, such as journalists, human rights activists, and government officials can opt for an extra layer of security.

Security Keys

Back in 2015, Apple incorporated two-factor authentication for Apple ID, which has now been adopted by over 95% of active iCloud accounts. This has made it one of the most commonly used two-factor security systems on the planet. To further enhance this protection, the company has now given users the option to make use of third-party hardware security keys.

This feature is specifically intended for people who are at a higher risk of targeted online account attacks, such as celebrities, journalists, and government officials. If users opt-in, the Security Keys will add another layer of security, making it impossible for even an advanced attacker to get access to the second factor in a phishing attack.

Advanced Data Protection for iCloud

Apple has been delivering unrivaled data security on its hardware with Data Protection, a complex encryption system included in iPhones, iPads, and Macs. Advanced Data Protection is the highest level of cloud data security from Apple, giving customers the freedom to shield most of their confidential iCloud data with end-to-end encryption so that it can only be decrypted on their reliable gadgets.

For those who opt-in, Advanced Data Protection will keep most iCloud data secure even if there is a data breach in the cloud. End-to-end encryption is used by default for 14 sensitive data categories on iCloud, like passwords in iCloud Keychain and Health data. When customers turn on Advanced Data Protection, the total number of data categories safeguarded with end-to-end encryption is increased.

In response to the notable rise in data breaches, which have now exposed more than one billion personal records worldwide this year alone, experts are calling for improved cybersecurity protocols for cloud-based services. In an effort to confront the threat, many tech companies have begun introducing end-to-end encryption in their products and services.