Updated as of iOS 18.1

Author: Allister D

This guide is part two of my series on enhancing the privacy and security of your iPhone. If you haven't yet gone through the initial steps to secure your iPhone, I recommend starting with the first guide, here. In this part, we focus on even more settings to reduce the amount of telemetry data your iPhone shares and to reduce the information that advertisers can gather about you. These steps are designed to offer you greater control over your personal information and minimize your digital footprint.

Settings > Apple Account > Sign-In & Security

  1. Enable “Automatic Verification”. This will allow iCloud to privately verify your device when you encounter CAPTCHAs.

Settings > Wi-Fi > Connected Network (ⓘ)

  1. Select “Rotating” under Private Wi-Fi Address. This will randomize your device MAC address on your connected network every 2 weeks.
  2. Enable “Limit IP Address Tracking”.

Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options

  1. Enable “Limit IP Address Tracking”
  2. Disable any apps that don't require your cellular data connection.

Settings > Notifications > Show Previews

  1. Select “When Unlocked”. This will ensure the contents of notifications such as a text message will only be visible when you phone is unlocked. Also consider installing a privacy screen protector on your phone.

Settings > General > AirDrop

  1. Select “Receiving Off”. This will prevent your phone from receiving unsolicited files, photos, etc. (you can enable AirDrop manually from control center if needed)
  2. Disable “Bringing Devices Together”. This will prevent unintentional sharing of contact information with nearby iPhones.

Settings > General > AirPlay & Continuity

  1. Select “Ask or Never” under “Automatically Airplay”. This will prevent you device from casting to unknown Airplay interfaces. Also turn off any of the other feature toggles if you find yourself not using them. “Transfer to HomePod, Handoff, Continity Camera, Airplay Receiver”.

Important Settings

Note: These settings are important to configure to maximize privacy protections