My Guide to iPhone Privacy & Settings for Ultimate Security

April 7, 2025

By Emily

I’ve always been someone who values both convenience and security, especially when it comes to my iPhone. It’s packed with important information, so making sure it’s secure is a priority for me. Over time, I’ve learned how to manage its settings to protect my data and keep my phone running smoothly.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the steps I use to secure my iPhone, from turning off restrictions to hiding my location. These simple tips have helped me get more control over my device. Let’s get started on making your iPhone as secure as possible!

How I Turn Off Restrictions on My iPhone

I sometimes need to turn off restrictions to get full control over my iPhone. Maybe I want to install an app or access certain features. Here’s how I do it.

Open Settings
Tap Screen Time
Tap Content & Privacy Restrictions
Toggle off Content & Privacy Restrictions
If prompted, enter your Screen Time passcode

When restrictions are off, you get more freedom with your apps and settings. However, keep in mind that this could also leave your device more vulnerable if not handled properly.

How I Hide My Location on My iPhone

Privacy is important, and sometimes I want to hide my location. This keeps apps from tracking where I am. Here’s how I manage it.

Open Settings
Tap Privacy & Security
Select Location Services
Toggle off Location Services or customize it for specific apps
To hide location for apps like Find My or Maps, turn off location access for each

If I need to be discreet, I simply adjust which apps can access my location.

How I Turn Off Find My iPhone

There are times when I need to turn off Find My iPhone, like when I’m selling my phone or troubleshooting. It’s quick and easy.

Open Settings
Tap your Apple ID
Tap Find My
Toggle off Find My iPhone
Enter your Apple ID password when prompted

Turning it off means the phone can’t be tracked, so make sure it’s only disabled when necessary. This also impacts features like Activation Lock, which adds an extra layer of security when Find My iPhone is on.

How I Block Websites on My iPhone

Sometimes I need to block websites to focus or limit access on my phone. It’s especially useful for parental controls or work devices. Here’s how I do it.

Open Settings
Tap Screen Time
Tap Content & Privacy Restrictions
Tap Content Restrictions
Select Web Content
Choose Limit Adult Websites or Allowed Websites Only

If I want to unblock a website later, I just go back to the same settings and adjust the restrictions.

How I Get Out of Incognito Mode on My iPhone

Incognito mode is handy when I need to browse privately. But sometimes, I forget to exit it. Here’s how I switch back to regular browsing mode.

Open Safari
Tap the Tabs icon
Tap Private to exit incognito mode
Tap Done

Once that’s done, I know I’m back to regular browsing with no privacy restrictions.

How I Change My iPhone Password

It’s good to change my iPhone password from time to time for security. Here’s how I do it quickly and easily.

Open Settings
Tap Face ID & Passcode (or Touch ID & Passcode)
Tap Change Passcode
Enter your old passcode
Set a new passcode

For extra security, I always choose a passcode that’s hard to guess and different from other passwords I use.

How I Unhide Apps on My iPhone

I often hide apps to keep my screen organized or decluttered. If I need an app back, here’s how I unhide it.

Open the App Store
Tap Search
Type the name of the app you want to unhide
Tap Download to bring it back on the home screen

To avoid hiding apps again, I make sure to organize them carefully.

Author

Emily

I'm Emily, your go-to guide on this tech adventure. With a passion for making the digital world feel cozy and accessible, I'm here to share my insights, experiences, and the occasional tech mishap in a language that speaks to everyone. Join me on Home Tech Nerves, where we turn complex tech talk into friendly conversations.
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