Use iPads Safely

Nine tips for greater security on your iPad

1. Set up a device lock. 
   Protect your iPad and your personal data from unauthorized access. Depending on the version, iOS offers a range of options. A good balance between security and everyday convenience is a longer alphanumeric passcode, such as 10 to 12 characters, combined with biometric authentication (Touch ID or Face ID). In most cases, biometric authentication is all you need to unlock your device conveniently. For certain important actions and after a longer period of inactivity, iOS also asks you to enter your passcode. To set this up, open “Einstellungen,” then “Touch ID & Code” or “Face ID & Code.” Select "Activate Code” or “Change Code.” You can choose the type of passcode using the “Code Options” button. In the “Use Touch ID for” section, you can specify that your iPad can be unlocked with Touch ID. Further down, you can also add a fingerprint. 
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3. Install updates. 
   You should install system updates provided by the manufacturer right away, as updates include many system improvements. They fix errors and close potential security vulnerabilities. You can manually check for updates under „Einstellungen, Allgemein, Software-Update“ or configure „Automatic Updates“. A number circled in red on the „Settings“ icon may indicate that a software update is available. For the same reasons, you should either update your Apps automatically (Setting, App Store, Automatic Downloads, App-Updates) or regularly install updates for your Apps. To do this, click your profile picture in the top right of the App Store, then click „Update All“ or select the Apps you want to update. Installing updates manually has the advantage of letting you read about new features.
4. Create regular Data backups.
   To ensure you can still access your data if your device is stolen or otherwise lost, we recommend syncing it with iCloud, Apple’s cloud server. In „Settings“, tap your username, then tap „iCloud“. There, you can enable „iCloud-Backup“. Please note that your data will then be stored on US servers. US legislation may allow authorities based there to access all data and information stored in a cloud. Alternatively, create regular backups on your PC or Mac. To do this, install iTunes on your PC or Mac and connect your iPad using a USB cable or WLAN.
5. Configure the Lock Screen correctly.
   Even when your device is locked, several features remain available. These include the camera, Control Center, and the Siri voice assistant. Disable Control Center on the Lock Screen, as it allows an attacker to bypass the “Mein iPad suchen” function by turning off the internet connection. To do this, tap “Touch ID & Code” or “Face ID & Code” in Settings and disable access to Control Center while locked. 
6. Turn off notification previews.
   Under “Einstellungen,” select “Mitteilungen,” then tap “News” or “Mail.” Next, set “Show Preview” to “If unlocked” instead of the default setting, “Always.” You can also turn off Lock Screen notifications entirely for individual Apps. You can find this option under “Messages” in “Settings.”
7. Review your privacy settings and adjust permissions.
   In „Einstellungen“, under „Datenschutz“, you can specify exactly which apps can access the camera, location, reminders, and other features. This lets you tailor system and installed app permissions to your security needs. 
8. Use WLAN and Bluetooth thoughtfully.
   Give attackers as little opportunity as possible. Turn on Bluetooth only when you are actually using a Bluetooth device with your iPad, such as a Bluetooth keyboard. Connect your tablet only to encrypted WLAN networks run by operators you trust. In „Einstellungen“, each option has its own entry. 
9. Turn on the automatic search feature.
   The “Find my iPad” feature lets you view the location of a stolen device. You need to weigh your security needs against data privacy. This feature works only if location services are enabled at all times. To turn it on, tap your name in “Setttings,” then tap “Where is?”. There, select "Find my iPad” to enable location tracking.
10. Turn on automatic data deletion.
    This iOS feature automatically deletes the data stored on your device after ten unsuccessful sign-in attempts. You can also find this option under “Touch ID & Code” in “Settings”; it is especially useful if you store highly sensitive data on your iPad. Be sure to create regular backups!