iOS 7.1, Apple’s latest update to its operating system, now includes a warning message for in-app purchases.
Many app developers rely on the in-app purchase system to generate revenue instead of offering a full paid version.
The window is clear and unequivocal: once you enter the password for your Apple account, you can make in-app purchases for 15 minutes without having to reenter the password.
A new window has appeared in iOS 7.1
Required password for all in-app purchases
With iOS 7.1, Apple has decided to strengthen its security measures, and the in-app purchase settings can be easily changed by going to Settings, then General and Restrictions.
On your iPhone, go to Settings, then tap on General.
Enter your passcode to access the Restrictions menu on your iPhone.
Enable Restrictions and select the Require Password option.
From now on, you’ll automatically be asked for your password before any in-app purchase.
Disable all in-app purchases
There’s also a second option in this menu that can also be very useful, letting you disable all in-app purchases. This is probably the best way to stop you (or others who have access to your phone) from going on a spending spree on your iPhone or iPad, as all in-app purchases simply disappear. If you want to avoid accidental purchases, this is what you have to do:
In the Restrictions menu, enter the passcode to unlock the device, look for the In-App Purchases option, and disable it.
Type your passcode and disable in-app purchases
And that’s it! No more micro-payments within apps.
These improvements introduced in iOS 7.1 seem to confirm that Apple still cares about security. Recent iOS security scares (the ‘white screen of death’ or the fake phone chargers) were dealt with quickly, and this update to in-app security follows in the same vein.
Follow me on Twitter: @bbrassart
Related links
