The Importance of Instant Password Requirement on iOS

What does this Institution entail and Why is it Important?

When your device’s screen is locked, you can set a time period before a password, PIN, or biometric verification is required to unlock the device again.
Often the default setting for this period is “Immediate,” meaning that as soon as the screen is locked, immediate authentication is required.
While this may seem like a simple setting, it has a big impact on the security of your device.

• Maximum Configurable Time: The maximum time you can set before a password is required is 4 hours.
  This means your device will remain accessible during this time without any security.
  This poses a great risk if you lose your device or it falls into the wrong hands.
• Minimum Configurable Time: Outside of the “Immediate” setting, the shortest possible time you can choose is 1 minute.
  Although this seems short, one minute can be enough for a malicious person to gain access to your device without authentication.

The Importance of MDM for Security Settings

While users can adjust these settings manually on their devices, it is important to realize that these security settings are best managed through a Mobile Device Management (MDM) solution, such as Microsoft Intune.
MDM tools allow organizations to centrally manage device security and ensure that all devices meet the required security standards.

• Central Management: With Intune, or any other MDM solution, you can enforce that the maximum wait time for requiring a password is set to “0,” meaning that the password is required immediately.
  This prevents users from changing this setting to a less secure option, knowingly or unknowingly.
• Protecting Sensitive Data: MDM solutions such as Intune provide additional layers of security for work-related apps.
  Even if a user accidentally leaves his or her device unsecured, sensitive corporate data remains protected by additional authentication requirements.

Using the Setting on iOS

To check and set this setting on an iOS device:

1. Go to “Settings.
2. Choose “Touch ID & Password” or “Face ID & Password,” depending on your device.
3. Select “Require password.
4. Make sure this option is set to “Immediate.

Why a 5-second Option?

Although “Immediately” is the safest option, it may be useful to have a short delay, say of 5 seconds.
This gives users a small margin to quickly unlock their device if they accidentally locked it, without re-entering their password or biometric authentication.
This can be especially valuable in BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) situations, where users use their personal device for both work and personal use.

Conclusion

Setting the password requirement to “Immediate” is a simple but crucial step to ensure the security of your mobile devices.
By centrally managing this setting through an MDM solution such as Intune, you will ensure that your organization meets strict security standards and minimize the risks of unauthorized access.
Are you ready to protect your organization from potential threats?
At Alta-ICT, starting with our Premium Modern Workplace packages, we offer full implementation of Intune with the right settings, so you’re always compliant.
Don’t be surprised – contact us today and find out how we can best secure your digital workplace.
S ecure your devices – Set the password requirement to ‘Immediate’ and manage it through your MDM!