My iPhone's Face ID has stopped working, and it says this is related to Stolen Device Protection being set to require protection everywhere instead of only in unfamiliar locations. I can't change that setting or reset Face ID because both actions require Face ID authentication. I also have passwords stored on the phone that I can only access with Face ID. I've tried the suggested troubleshooting steps, but nothing has helped. I was told to try Reset All Settings, but I'm worried about what that would erase or change. What are my options?
2 Answers
Take it to an Apple Store or authorized repair provider and explain that Face ID and Stolen Device Protection are blocking access to your passwords. They can determine whether the TrueDepth camera needs replacement. Reset All Settings normally keeps your photos, apps, and personal data, but it resets system preferences and likely won’t fix a hardware failure or bypass the protection, so it’s best not to rely on that as the solution.
If Face ID itself isn’t working, this is probably a problem with the TrueDepth camera system rather than a normal settings issue. Stolen Device Protection is designed to prevent changes to sensitive settings without successful biometric authentication, so you generally can’t disable it or bypass it with a passcode while Face ID is unavailable. The practical solution is to have the iPhone inspected and repaired by Apple or an authorized service provider.
Ugh, I was afraid this might mean an expensive repair. I mainly need to recover the passwords, so I’ll check with Apple before changing anything else.