How to enable Advanced Data Protection on iPhone, iPad and Mac

This month, Apple introduced three Apple ID security features: iMessage Contact Key Verification, Advanced Data Protection, and Security Key. Thanks to the latest update – iOS 16.2, improved data protection is now available on iPhone and other Apple devices. This is a great security feature for iCloud data. Here’s how to enable advanced data protection on your iPhone, iPad, and Mac.

The toggle switch feature is also coming to iPhone with the iOS 16.3 update. And a third security feature may be available soon. But for now, users can take advantage of the new Advanced Data Protection for iCloud.

What is Advanced Data Protection?

Advanced Data Protection provides end-to-end encryption of iCloud backups and other categories of iCloud data. iCloud already has security features, but the new data protection takes it to the next level. This is because encrypted data can only be decrypted on trusted devices. And thus, even in case of iCloud data theft, the encrypted data will not be decrypted.

Advanced Data Protection is Apple’s highest level of security for iCloud. The new option increases end-to-end encryption to nine more categories of iCloud data.

• Device backup
• Messages are saved
• iCloud Drive
• Notes
• Pictures
• Reminders
• Safari bookmarks
• Siri Shortcuts
• Voice notes
• Wallet pass

How to activate advanced data protection

The new feature is available on iPhone and iPad with the latest update. But it is disabled by default on both devices. So, to use this feature, you need to enable it. I have prepared a guide for you to make it easier for you. You can follow the mentioned steps to enable Advanced Data Protection.

Note: Advanced Data Protection is currently available in the US. It is expected to reach more regions in 2023.

Enable Advanced Data Protection on iPhone and iPad

1. Make sure to update your device to iOS 16.2 or iPadOS 16.2.
2. After that, open Settings on your iPhone or iPad.
3. Tap your profile icon at the top.
4. To search iCloud and open it.
5. Scroll down and you will find it Detailed data protectiontap to open it.
6. Tap on “Enable advanced data protection”.
7. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up the new feature. You must specify at least one recovery method.

See, now your iCloud data, like backups, is more secure than ever.

Enable Advanced Data Protection on your Mac

If you have a Mac, you can follow these steps.

1. Update your Mac to macOS 13.1.
2. Now press and select the Apple icon System Parameters.
3. Then click on your name/profile and select iCloud choice.
4. Here you will find Advanced Data Protection, open it.
5. Click the “Enable advanced data protection” button.
6. Now follow the on-screen instructions and configure the recovery method.

How to disable Advanced Data Protection for iCloud

If you decide to opt out or disable this feature, you can easily do so. After you turn it off, the device will download the encryption keys so iCloud data can use default data protection again.

On your device (iPhone/iPad/Mac), open Advanced Data Protection under iCloud. And there you will find the button to turn it off, of course, if the function is activated in the first place. It is very easy as you know the interface because you have enabled the feature from the same settings.

Bonus: Recover encrypted iCloud data

If something goes wrong, you will need to restore your encrypted iCloud data. The new feature prevents Apple from having access to your recovery keys. The recovery key is only available to the user configured when data protection is enabled. Users can choose from three recovery options.

• Device passcode or passcode: The passcode for your Apple device
• Recovery connection: Apple device of a trusted friend or family member
• Recovery key: 28-character secret code

So that’s all about Advanced Data Protection and how to enable it. I hope you find the guide useful and share it with your friends using Apple devices. If you have any questions, let us know in the comment section.

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