iPhone Security Delay in Progress? How-to Guide

By Andy Samuel to iPhone Tips | 2025-02-21
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Have you encountered a "Security Delay in Progress" message on your iPhone 14 or 15 and want to turn it off? Apple introduced this feature to enhance device security, but it can be inconvenient when you need quick access to your settings. If you're wondering how to turn off security delay on iPhone 14/15, this guide will walk you through multiple methods to turn off Security Delay on iPhone, with or without passcode and face ID.

Part 1: What Is Security Delay on iPhone?

The Security Delay in Progress on iPhone is a protective feature that activates when critical security settings—like Apple ID password or device passcode—are modified. It enforces a waiting period to prevent unauthorized changes, reducing the risk of data breaches or identity theft. This delay gives users time to detect and respond to unauthorized access, such as remotely locking or erasing their device.

While this feature is effective in safeguarding against hackers, it can be inconvenient for legitimate changes. Fortunately, there are methods to disable the security delay on iPhone 14 and 15.

iphone security delay in progress

Part 2: How to Turn Off Security Delay on iPhone 14/15 with Password?

To deactivate the security delay on your iPhone, you’ll need access to your screen lock passcode. The security delay can be turned off by either disabling Stolen Device Protection entirely or adjusting the "Require Security Delay" setting to "Away from Familiar Locations." If you prefer to eliminate the security delay completely, you can follow the steps below to disable Stolen Device Protection.

  • Navigate to the Settings app on your iPhone.

  • Scroll down and select Face ID & Passcode (or Touch ID & Passcode on older models).

  • Provide your passcode when prompted and then toggle off Stolen Device Protection button.

    how to turn off security delay on iphone
  • Tap Start Security Delay > Done. Wait for an hour and then go back to disable Stolen Device Protection. By completing these steps, you should be able to turn security delay off

    iphone security delay familiar location

Additional Tips for Managing Security Settings

  • Ensure Your Apple ID Is Secure: Even after disabling security delay, ensure you have strong security measures in place, like two-factor authentication.
  • Keep Your Device Updated: Regular iOS updates may include changes to security features. Staying updated ensures your device remains secure.

Part 3: How to Turn iPhone Security Off Without Password & Face ID?

As previously mentioned, disabling the iPhone Security Delay requires either your device passcode or Face ID authentication. However, if you’ve forgotten your passcode and still need to turn off the security delay, you can rely on a trusted third-party tool like PassFab iPhone Unlock. This powerful software is designed to remove screen passcode, enabling you to regain access to your device without needing the verification.

PassFab iPhone Unlock is particularly useful in situations where you’re locked out of your iPhone due to forgotten credentials or other security-related issues. It supports a wide range of iOS devices and versions, ensuring compatibility with most iPhones.

Key Features of PassFab iPhone Unlock

  • Fast - Remove screen lock/iPhone Passcode/Activation Lock in minutes
  • Secure - Bypass screen time/MDM lock without data loss
  • Easy to operate - Unlock by yourself at home without hassle
  • Compatible - Compatible with the latest iOS 18 and iPhone 16 models
  • Supports Windows and MacOS

Steps to Turn Off iPhone Security Delay Using PassFab iPhone Unlock:

  • Get the software on your computer. Use a USB cable to connect your iPhone to the computer.

  • Open PassFab iPhone Unlock and select Unlock iOS Screen.

    bypass mdm in passfab iphone unlock
  • Click Next to continue.

    start remove iphone passcode in passfab iphone unlock
  • The software will download the latest iOS firmware for your device.

    download firmware package in passfab iphone unlock
  • After downloading, click Start to Remove Unlock and wait for the process to complete.

    download firmware package successfully in passfab iphone unlock
  • After the process, your iPhone will restart without the security delay restrictions.

    removed passcode successfully by passfab iphone unlock

Part 4: Can I Turn Off iPhone Security Without Waiting?

Yes, but only under certain conditions. Apple enforces a waiting period for security-related settings, but you can bypass this using methods like:

  • Restoring Your iPhone via iTunes or Finder: A full restore removes all settings, including security delay restrictions.
  • Using iCloud to Erase Your iPhone: If Find My iPhone is enabled, you can erase your device remotely.
  • Using PassFab iPhone Unlock: As mentioned earlier, this tool helps bypass security measures quickly.
  • Alternative Methods to Consider
  • Contact Apple Support: If you’re locked out due to a forgotten passcode and security delay, Apple Support may help you regain access.
  • Use a Familiar Location: If security delay is triggered due to a new location, try making changes from a familiar location to avoid the delay.

Part 5: Why Is There a Security Delay on My iPhone?

Many users often wonder: Why is there a security delay on my iPhone? Rest assured, this is a standard security feature for iPhones running iOS 17.4 or later. When Stolen Device Protection is enabled, particularly with the "Require Security Delay" setting configured to "Always", you may encounter a one-hour waiting period before being able to modify critical security settings or access your Apple ID, regardless of your location.

This security delay lasts for one hour on your iPhone. Once the hour has passed, you’ll receive a notification allowing you to proceed with sensitive changes or access restricted settings using your screen lock passcode. However, during this delay, you won’t be able to alter any iPhone settings or switch the "Require Security Delay" option to "Away from Familiar Locations". The security delay is enforced in specific scenarios when Stolen Device Protection is active, ensuring an additional layer of security to protect your device and data.

No Security DelaySecurity Delay
Access iCloud Keychain passwordsChange your Apple ID password
Apply for a new Apple CardSign out of your Apple ID
Erase all content and settingsUpdate Apple ID security settings
Turn off Lost ModeAdd or remove Face ID or Touch ID
Send money using Apple CashChange your iPhone passcode
Set up a new device using your iPhoneReset All Settings
Use payment methods saved in SafariEnroll in Mobile Device Management
Customize your iPhone wallpaperTurn off Stolen Device Protection

Part 6: Should I Disable iPhone Security on My iPhone?

While disabling security delay can make accessing settings faster, it reduces the overall security of your iPhone. Here are a few points to consider:

When You Should Disable It:

  • You frequently change security settings and need instant access.
  • You’re the sole user of your device and don’t need extra protection.
  • You have alternative security measures in place, such as biometric authentication.

When You Should Keep It Enabled:

  • You want to prevent unauthorized access to your iPhone.
  • Your device contains sensitive data that requires additional protection.
  • You often use public networks where security risks are higher.

Conclusion

iPhone security delay is a useful feature for protecting your device, but it can be inconvenient when you need to make urgent changes. Fortunately, there are multiple ways to turn off security delay on iPhone 14 and 15, including using your passcode, restoring your device, or utilizing tools like PassFab iPhone Unlock. Before disabling this security feature, weigh the risks and benefits to ensure your device remains protected.

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