iOS 11.3 Update: Apple Introduces Privacy Feature To Protect Against iCloud Phishing

The beta version of iOS 11.3 was released on Wednesday, and with it came a new privacy feature that could help against iCloud password phishing scams.

The iOS 11.3 update works with iPhones, iPads and the iPod touch. The update is available to developers for now but will launch for everyone this spring, Apple said.

Images of the new privacy icons were shared by a U.K.-based developer on Twitter, spotted by Cult of Mac.

Apple devices usually randomly ask for iCloud credentials, but those sign-in windows could be scams by malicious apps. The issue was brought up by Felix Krause, an iOS developer and creator of the Fastlane app. In a blog post last October, Krause warned that it’s easy for attackers to create a fake version of Apple’s login window. Since Apple device users usually plug in their credentials whenever the gadget randomly asks for it, people can easily fall for the spoof. The fake versions can be designed by attackers to save the usernames and passwords of iCloud accounts.

The new privacy feature could allow users to stay on the safe side. The privacy icon is displayed when an Apple app or feature requests to use a person’s information. Not seeing the privacy icon could raise a flag for users before they automatically plugin their iCloud details.

Krause addressed the new feature on Twitter, saying he was “really excited to see security and privacy improvements.”

What Is The iCloud Privacy Icon On iOS 11.3?

The privacy icon shows two blue people holding hands.

The icon’s notice says:

“You won’t see this icon with every feature since Apple only collects this information when it’s needed to enable features, to secure our services, or to personalize your experience.

Apple believes privacy is a fundamental human right, so every Apple product is designed to:

• Use on-device processing wherever possible

• Limit the collection and use of data

• Provide transparency and control over your information

• Build on a strong foundation of security”

It then asks users if they want to continue or if they want to learn more about the feature.

The new privacy icon will also work with Mac computers through the upcoming macOS High Sierra 10.13.4. update. The developers version of the update, also released on Wednesday, shows the privacy icon too.

What Else Is Coming In iOS 11.3 Update?

Apart from the privacy icon, Apple is launching other new features with iOS 11.3.

Here are a few of them.

ARKit

The update will come with improvements for Apple’s augmented reality software ARKit for iPhones and iPads: ARKit 1.5.

Animoji

iOS 11.3 will also bring new Animoji for iPhone X users: a dragon, bear, lion and skull.

Business Chat

Apple also teamed up with Discover, Hilton, Lowe’s and Wells Fargo for its Business Chat feature on iMessage. The feature allows users to communicate with customer service representatives.

Health App

The Health app will see the launch of a major feature with iOS 11. 3. The app will soon be able to include a user’s health records from hospitals and clinics.