How to Use iMessage Contact Key Verification on iPhone

In iOS 17.2 and subsequent versions, Apple introduces Contact Key Verification, a feature aimed at bolstering messaging security on iPhones. This article elucidates the significance of utilizing this feature and provides practical guidance on its activation.

Why Opt for Contact Key Verification?

Contact Key Verification, crafted by Apple, ensures heightened security for iMessage conversations, verifying the authenticity of your communication partners. Particularly beneficial in contexts where confidentiality is paramount, this method offers the following advantages:

1. Enhanced Security: Adds an additional layer of defense against sophisticated cyber threats, ensuring messaging only with intended recipients.
2. Automatic Verification Alerts: Prompts automatic alerts and facilitates real-time comparison of unique codes within the Messages app for identity verification.
3. Public Verification Code: Permits sharing of a Public Verification Code on social platforms or saving others’ codes, fostering trust in communication channels.

Enabling Contact Key Verification

To activate Contact Key Verification, ensure your devices are updated to iOS 17.2 or later versions, and are secured with passcodes or passwords. Additionally, sign into iCloud and iMessage with the same Apple ID, and activate two-factor authentication for your Apple ID. Lastly, ensure the individuals you wish to verify are in your contacts.

1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
2. Tap on your Apple ID at the top.
3. Scroll down and select Contact Key Verification.
4. Toggle the switch next to Verification in iMessage to activate Contact Key Verification.

Upon completion, a splash screen provides further information about the feature, and updating other linked devices may be necessary.

Verifying Your Identity for Others

Within Settings, navigate to your Apple ID and select Contact Key Verification. From there, opt to Show Public Verification Code, and then copy the code for sharing with others, affirming your identity.

Verifying Others’ Identities

In a Messages conversation, tap the person’s name and choose Verify Contact. Both parties will generate six-digit codes to compare for matching verification. Upon confirmation, mark as verified and update, associating the code with the contact card.

Additional Steps for Public Verification Codes

For heightened security, store each other’s Public Verification Codes in Contacts, enabling simultaneous verification or rectification of discrepancies.

Responding to Contact Key Verification Alerts

Upon receiving an alert, pause the conversation to securely verify the contact, either by comparing codes or employing other trusted methods. These alerts warrant attention to safeguard communication integrity. For detailed instructions and specific alert responses, consult Salute iWorld Certified Service Engineers.