Security on the iPhone extends beyond a strong email and password setup. Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of protection, requiring a one-time code in addition to your password. However, managing these codes manually can become cumbersome and contribute to device clutter.
Apple has introduced a feature that enables the automatic removal of outdated 2FA codes. This step-by-step guide assists you in activating the feature and clearing old OTPs and 2FA codes from your iPhone.
Follow these steps:
Access iPhone Settings
Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
Navigate to Passwords
Go to “Passwords” in the Settings menu.
Choose Password Options
Select “Password Options” within the Passwords menu.
Enable Automatic Cleanup
Toggle on “Clean Up Automatically” to activate the feature.
Enabling this feature ensures that your iPhone automatically removes used or expired 2FA codes from both the Messages and Mail apps, maintaining your device’s organization and eliminating unnecessary clutter.
Extra details for code retrieval
If you find yourself needing to recover an automatically deleted verification code, simply tap “Edit” in the top left corner of the Messages app and select “Show Recently Deleted.”
While enhancing device security with two-factor authentication is vital, handling a continuous flow of codes can be daunting. Thankfully, with iOS 17, Apple streamlines this process, enabling users to automatically remove outdated codes. Follow the steps outlined in this guide to streamline your 2FA code management, ensuring a secure and organized iPhone experience.