Is iCloud Security Enough?

The iCloud storage service lets you keep your information secure and available across connected devices. Thanks to Apple’s comprehensive iCloud security features that protect your data, all you have to do is use them and make sure you don't compromise your Apple ID credentials. However, is it safe?

Apple applies high security standards, offering its customers robust protection for their iCloud services with two-factor authentication and strong encryption. These security features protect your iCloud account from fraudulent attempts to gain access. Let’s look at them in detail:

• Two-factor authentication (2FA). Apple highly recommends enabling two-factor authentication for your Apple ID. 2FA means that you have to provide two forms of verification — a password and a verification code — to access your Apple ID and, subsequently, your iCloud account. You can choose to receive the verification code as a text message or phone call to your trusted phone number, as a notification on your authenticated mobile device (iPhone or iPad), or generated on a password generator. Even if someone discovers your password, they won’t be able to access your account without the code.
• Robust encryption. Apple offers two options to encrypt your iCloud data — "Standard data protection" and "Advanced data protection." Standard protection is the default option and means that your data is encrypted with standard encryption with encryption keys stored in Apple’s data centers and only part of the data encrypted end-to-end. Advanced data protection offers even a higher level of security. With this option, only your trusted devices have access to encryption keys for the majority of your data stored on iCloud, secured with end-to-end encryption. Only you, the owner, can access the end-to-end encrypted data with proper authentication. Even Apple can’t see this data.
• Data protection during transit and at rest. Once you upload your files to iCloud, your data is encrypted on your device and only then transmitted to Apple’s servers. It’s safe during transit to Apple’s servers and data centers because of the robust encryption. And it remains safe when stored on Apple’s servers for the same reason — robust encryption.
• Device-specific encryption keys. When you choose the “Advanced data protection” option and upload your files to iCloud, the majority of your data is encrypted using a unique encryption key generated on your device. This key is never shared with Apple or stored on their servers. When you want to access your data on iCloud, you have to sign in with your Apple ID and provide a verification code. Once you’re authenticated, your device requests an encryption key from Apple’s servers and decrypts your files locally on your device.

The most common risks to your iCloud account are related to compromised login credentials and unauthorized access. If you have a weak Apple ID password, haven’t enabled 2FA, have suffered a phishing attack, or lost your device, your iCloud security might be at risk.

• Weak passwords. If you use a short and common password, a cybercriminal can either guess it or crack it without much difficulty. Never use weak passwords or reuse the same one for multiple accounts, because if one account is hacked, the others automatically face danger. Not using 2FA. Without 2FA enabled, it would be much easier for a cybercriminal to hack into your iCloud account. 2FA provides an extra layer of security, so make sure to enable it for your Apple ID. If you are using your iPhone for receiving the verification code, make sure to maximize your iPhone security by creating a strong password and enabling biometric verification.
• Phishing attacks. During a phishing attack, a user receives an email or a message designed to trick them into revealing their login credentials. You can also stumble upon a phishing website designed to look like a legitimate one and persuade you into divulging your personal information, including login details. Be careful and don’t open any attachments or click any links in suspicious emails, messages, or on websites you don’t fully trust.
• Lost or stolen devices. If you lose your Apple device or someone steals it, and it is not secured with a passcode or biometric authentication, like Face ID or Touch ID, the thief could gain access to the content on your device. It is especially dangerous to lose your device if, at the time, you are logged in to your Apple ID, because a criminal could easily access your personal information, files, photos, and videos you store on iCloud.