Short answerUse a strong passcode, turn on Stolen Device Protection, keep the Hidden album locked and out of view, limit which apps can see your photos, turn off location for the Camera, review iCloud sharing, consider Advanced Data Protection, and keep truly private photos in an encrypted vault.
Device
- Passcode: use six digits or longer, or an alphanumeric code. Settings → Face ID & Passcode.
- Stolen Device Protection: on. It adds Face ID and a delay for sensitive changes away from familiar places.
- Auto-Lock: 1 minute or less. Settings → Display & Brightness.
Photos app
- Hidden album: keep Use Face ID on and Show Hidden Album off. Settings → Apps → Photos.
- Featured content: turn off if Memories surprise you.
- Lock the Photos app: touch and hold → Require Face ID.
Who can see your photos
- App access: Settings → Privacy & Security → Photos. Prefer Limited Access or None.
- Camera location: Settings → Privacy & Security → Location Services → Camera → Never (or turn it off when sharing).
- Shared albums and Shared Library: review who's in them.
Cloud
- iCloud devices: remove devices you no longer use.
- Advanced Data Protection: consider turning it on.
The private stuff
- Move private photos into an encrypted vault with its own code, and clean up the originals. Try the VaultBolt demo.
Frequently asked questions
Which apps can see my iPhone photos?
Check Settings, Privacy & Security, Photos. Each app shows Full Access, Limited Access or None.
