10 iPhone Privacy & Security Tips Anyone Can Use

Written By Steven Schlagel


Why Your iPhone Still Needs Privacy Hardening

Apple touts itself as privacy-first—but that doesn’t mean you’re fully protected out of the box. Between app trackers, lock screen leaks, and weak default settings, your data is more exposed than you think.

Here are 10 practical, easy-to-implement tips to boost your iPhone’s security and privacy.

1. Set a Strong Passcode

Skip the 4-digit default. Instead:

  • Go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode

  • Tap Change Passcode

  • Select Passcode Options > Custom Alphanumeric Code

If you’re concerned about being forced to unlock your phone, disable Face ID and Touch ID.

2. Lock Down Your Lock Screen

The lock screen shows previews and toggles that could expose sensitive info. Disable access to:

  • Notification Center

  • Today View

  • Control Center

  • Wallet

  • Siri

  • Reply with Message

Go to: Settings → Face ID & Passcode → Toggle these off under “Allow Access When Locked.”

3. Stop App Tracking

Prevent apps from tracking your activity across other apps and websites.

  • Settings > Privacy & Security > Tracking

  • Turn Allow Apps to Request to Track → OFF

Then go through Privacy & Security permissions to remove location, mic, or camera access from apps that don’t need them.

4. Use a Private Browser

Safari is decent, but you can go further:

  • Turn on iCloud Private Relay (iCloud+ users only)

  • Or install Brave or Firefox Focus and set it as your default

To set a default browser: Settings > Safari > Default Browser App

5. Disable Personalized Ads

Apple and other platforms profile your behavior to serve ads.

  • Settings > Privacy & Security > Apple Advertising

  • Turn Personalized Ads → OFF

  • Also disable analytics sharing in: Settings > Privacy > Analytics & Improvements

6. Use Private Email & Messaging

  • Switch to Proton Mail or Tutanota for email

  • Use Signal for encrypted messaging

  • Avoid using Gmail or SMS for sensitive communication

Bonus: Use MySudo to manage aliases and virtual phone numbers.

7. Use a Trusted VPN

A VPN masks your IP address and location—but only if it’s trustworthy. Use:

  • Proton VPN

  • Mullvad

  • IVPN

Never use free VPNs. They often log and sell your data.

8. Harden or Minimize iCloud

If you use iCloud, enable end-to-end encryption:

  • Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > Advanced Data Protection

Otherwise, limit its use. For safer alternatives, consider:

  • Cryptomator + Dropbox

  • Tresorit

9. Keep iOS & Apps Updated

Many exploits target outdated systems.

  • Turn on Settings > General > Software Update > Automatic Updates

  • Update apps in the App Store regularly

10. Disable Siri & Background Listening

Limit what Siri can capture and send to Apple:

  • Settings > Siri & Search

  • Disable Listen for "Hey Siri" and Allow Siri When Locked

  • Also turn off: Settings > Privacy > Analytics > Share iPhone Analytics

Bonus Tip: Consider a “Ghost Phone”

If you want extra separation between business and personal life, consider using a second phone with a new Apple ID and minimal identifying data.

Wrapping Up

Your iPhone doesn’t have to leak your private life. With just an hour of setup, you can block trackers, limit data leaks, and make yourself a harder target.

Start with these steps, and build from there. Your privacy is worth protecting.

Steven Schlagel
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