My iPhone's Face ID stopped working, and it says Stolen Device Protection is set to require extra security everywhere instead of only in unfamiliar locations. I can't change that setting or reset Face ID because both actions require Face ID first. Some of my saved passwords also require Face ID to view. I've tried the suggested troubleshooting steps, but nothing has helped. I was told to use Reset All Settings, but I'm worried about what that would erase and whether it would actually fix the problem.
3 Answers
If Face ID itself isn’t working, Stolen Device Protection generally can’t be disabled because it requires successful biometric authentication. This points to a problem with the TrueDepth camera system, so the practical solution is to have the iPhone inspected and repaired by Apple or an authorized service provider. Reset All Settings won’t repair faulty Face ID or bypass that security requirement.
Take the phone to an Apple Store or authorized repair provider and explain that Face ID and Stolen Device Protection are preventing access. If your passwords are synced with iCloud Keychain, you may also be able to view them from another trusted Apple device, but the damaged Face ID system will still need service.
Reset All Settings is different from erasing the iPhone: it normally keeps your photos, apps, and personal data, but resets things like network, privacy, keyboard, and system preferences. However, it probably won’t solve this situation because the phone still requires Face ID to change the protection setting. Avoid repeatedly following unverified AI instructions and get the hardware checked instead.
That’s frustrating because I really hoped resetting the settings would let me get around the Face ID requirement. I’ll check whether my passwords are available on another trusted device and ask Apple about the repair cost.