Apple is building a Lockdown Mode to fend off cyberattacks on high-profile users

Lockdown Mode is designed for a very small number of users who face grave, targeted threats. It will be available in the fall when the company releases its new operating systems.

The company says it created Lockdown Mode to help protect high-profile people who might be targeted by malicious software developed by the likes of NSO Group. If you switch on Lockdown Mode, the functions of an Apple product will be severely restricted.

Attachments other than images won't be accepted in Messages. Link previews are the same. If you've previously called or shared an invite with someone, Lockdown Mode will allow you to call them. When the device is locked, wired connections will be disabled.

Unless you manually approve a site, Apple will block certain web technologies. Adding a device to mobile device management will not be possible when Lockdown Mode is enabled. Some experiences will not be available completely.

Lockdown Mode will provide all these protections. Over time, it intends to add more. The Security Bounty program is going to be expanded. Up to $2 million will be given to researchers who find weaknesses in Lockdown Mode and help make it more secure.

The most secure mobile devices are made by Apple. Ivan Krsti, Apple's head of security engineering and architecture, said that Lockdown Mode is a new capability that reflects the company's dedication to protecting users from even the most sophisticated attacks. The majority of users will never be the victims of highly targeted cyberattacks, but we will work hard to protect the small number of users who are. Supporting researchers and organizations around the world doing critically important work in exposing mercenary companies that create these digital attacks is part of that.

Apple sued NSO Group in order to hold it accountable for states that target and spy on its users. The company will donate $10 million as well as any damages it receives as a result of the suit, to organizations that investigate, expose, and prevent highly targeted cyberattacks. The Ford Foundation will make grants through the fund.