Apple Just Gave iPhone Users 5 Powerful Free Security Tools – Here’s How to Turn Them On Right Now

In a world where digital privacy is constantly under threat, Apple continues to set the gold standard for smartphone security. While many iPhone users are aware of Apple's reputation for safeguarding user data, not everyone takes full advantage of the powerful security features built right into iOS.

From blocking online trackers to controlling app permissions, Apple offers five essential free security tools that can significantly boost your privacy. Here’s how you can use them to keep your iPhone data secure.

1. Browse Safely with Safari’s Privacy Protection

Ever wondered how websites track your every move online? Apple’s Safari browser comes with built-in privacy features that block websites from monitoring your browsing history, search activity, and autofill information.

To take it a step further, you can lock your browsing data behind Face ID or Touch ID, ensuring only you can access it.

How to Enable Safe Browsing on Safari:

Open SettingsNavigate to SafariGo to AdvancedFind Privacy-Preserving Ad MeasurementTurn it on

By enabling this setting, you can browse freely without websites secretly collecting your data.

2. Keep Your Searches Private by Removing Tracking Links

Websites love sneaking extra tracking parameters into links to monitor your online behavior. Apple’s Link Tracking Protection automatically removes this hidden data, ensuring that your searches and clicks remain private.

This feature works across Safari, Messages, and Mail, meaning that no matter how you browse, Apple keeps your data safe.

How to Enable Link Tracking Protection:

Go to SettingsTap SafariNavigate to AdvancedSelect Remove Tracking ParametersEnable it

Once activated, third-party trackers won’t be able to follow you across the internet, reducing the chances of targeted ads and data collection.

3. Stop Apps from Tracking Your Exact Location

Not every app needs to know exactly where you are! With Apple’s Approximate Location feature, you can prevent apps from accessing your precise GPS data.

This is perfect for location-based services like food delivery or weather apps that only need a general idea of your whereabouts—not your exact street address.

How to Enable Approximate Location on iPhone:

Open SettingsGo to Privacy & SecurityTap Location ServicesSelect the app you want to modifyToggle Approximate Location instead of Precise

Now, apps will get a rough idea of your location without exposing your exact position.

4. Control Which Apps Can Access Your Contacts

Many apps request full access to your contact list—even when they don’t really need it. With iOS 18’s enhanced privacy controls, you can now choose specific contacts to share instead of giving apps access to your entire address book.

This prevents unnecessary data collection and keeps your friends’ information private.

How to Manage Contact Sharing with Apps:

Open SettingsNavigate to Privacy & SecurityTap ContactsChoose which contacts each app can access

By enabling this feature, you take control of your personal connections while still using apps that require contact access.

5. Get Full Visibility with Apple’s App Privacy Report

Do you know which apps have access to your camera, microphone, and location? Apple’s App Privacy Report provides a detailed breakdown of how frequently apps access your sensitive data.

With this report, you can revoke permissions for any app that’s overstepping its boundaries—helping you maintain strict control over your privacy.

How to Enable the App Privacy Report:

Go to SettingsNavigate to Privacy & SecurityTap App Privacy ReportTurn it on

Once activated, your iPhone will track app behavior, giving you full insight into how your data is being used.

Final Thoughts: Your iPhone’s Security Is in Your Hands

Apple’s built-in security tools give you a powerful defense against digital threats, but they’re only effective if you actually use them.

By activating these five free privacy features, you can:  Block online trackers  Prevent hidden link tracking  Limit location data exposure Control app access to contacts  Monitor how apps use your personal data

With cyber threats evolving every day, taking these small but impactful steps will keep your iPhone—and your personal data—safer than ever.