What is iMessage contact key verification? How to apply for it? Why is verification required?

Apple has officially added the “iMessage Contact Key Verification” function in the iOS 17.2 version. It is a feature that specifically protects iPhone users’ communication security when using iMessage. Through the encryption keys of both parties, each other’s message content can be prevented from being accessed by third parties. Even Apple cannot see the theft by intentional third parties, so this article will share what is the iMessage contact key verification application and verification method?

What is iMessage contact key verification?

At the end of 2022, Apple announced that it will launch three advanced security features to protect personal information, including iCloud Advanced Data Protection, Apple ID “Security Key”, and iMessage contact key verification, so what is “iMessage Contact Key Verification”? It is designed for users facing digital threats to prevent attackers from impersonating contacts’ identities and provide a more powerful protection mechanism. It allows users to communicate with iMessage with greater peace of mind and more effectively protects personal privacy.

However, the purpose of this function andIt is not intended to protect users from fraudulent activities such as phishing or messaging scams..

How to enable iMessage contact key verification application and verification?

► Relevant restrictions

To use iMessage’s contact key verification feature, you need to meet the following conditions:

1. Operating system version
   All devices that use your Apple ID to log in to iMessage must comply with the following operating systems:
   • iOS 17.2 or higher
   • iPadOS 17.2 or later
   • watchOS 10.2 or higher
   • macOS 14.2 or later
   • visionOS 1.1 or higher.
2. Device settings
   • All devicesUse the same Apple ID to log in to iCloud and iMessage
   • on all devicesTurn on iCloud Keychain
   • for your Apple ID Turn on two-factor authentication
   • for all devicesSet password

► How to turn it on?

On your iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Mac or Apple Vision Pro, open the Settings app or Mac’s System Settings, select your Apple ID name > click Contact Key Verification, and then follow the system’s guidance Complete the remaining setup steps.

• Any Apple device logged in through your Apple ID must meet the operating system requirements, otherwise this feature cannot be turned on
• If you encounter an Apple device that cannot be updated, you need to directly replace the device that cannot be updatedSign out of iMessage

► How to verify contacts manually?

In the “Messages” app, just click on the contact’s name, scroll down > and you will see “Verify contact“Options. If the other party has not turned it on, the words “Verification turned off” will be displayed, and you need to ask the other party to turn on this function first.

Verification can only be performed if both parties have this feature turned on.

[Method 1]Compare verification code

The first verification method isBoth devices must open this verification screen.wait for a while before the “Verification Code” will appear after opening them. If the verification codes are the same, you can select “Mark Verified”. If they are different, select Not Conformed.

[Method 2]Use public verification code

Another way isUse “Public Verification Code”as long as you turn on the contact key verification function of iMessage, the system will allocate a set of super complex public key passwords. You can store this set of public keys in your own contact information or disclose it to others. , relatives and friends who need to verify you can mark you as verified as long as the set of public key passwords are consistent.

Summarize

The main purpose of the iMessage contact key verification function designed by Apple is to provide users with an additional layer of security to prevent unscrupulous people from using false identities to open conversations. After verification, your messages will be more closely protected. It will be intercepted by anyone who is interested. However, this function cannot prevent fraud such as phishing or message fraud. Therefore, you still need to confirm again when you see those links and messages from unknown sources.

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