Apple is developing a Lockdown Mode to prevent high-profile people from being targeted by hackers

Apple has announced Lockdown Mode, a "high" level of security that's designed for "very few people who face serious, targeted dangers." It will be made available this fall when iOS 16, iPadOS 16, and macOS Ventura are released.

The software was originally designed to protect high-profile individuals from being targeted by malware produced by the NSO Group, which develops Pegasus, or other state-sponsored groups. To limit prospective entry points for spyware, Lockdown Mode will severely limit an iPhone's capabilities and more.

For a start, most attachments other than photographs will be prohibited in Messages. Link previews, too, will be disabled. Unless it's from someone you've previously called or given an invite to, Lockdown Mode will block incoming FaceTime calls and other invites. When the device is locked, connected iPhones with computers and accessories will be disconnected.

Apple will also block certain web technologies, such as JavaScript just-in-time compilation, unless you specifically allow a website. It will also be impossible to add a device to mobile device management or install a configuration profile when Lockdown Mode is enabled. When this option is selected, "certain experiences" will be entirely inaccessible.

All of these safeguards will be accessible when Lockdown Mode drops, according to the company. It is also working on more features. Apple will also expand its Security Bounty program. Researchers who discover flaws in Lockdown Mode and help Apple make it more secure will be eligible for rewards of up to $2 million under the new initiative.

Apple sued NSO Group last year to "hold it accountable" for states that target and spy on its customers. The firm has said it will give $10 million, as well as any damages it may suffer as a result of the case, to non-profits that "investigate, expose, and prevent highly targeted cyberattacks." The Ford Foundation's Dignity and Justice Fund will distribute funds.