How To Enable iMessage Contact Key Verification on your iPhone Running iOS 17.2

With the introduction of iOS 17.2, Apple added a new security feature called Contact Key Verification (CKV), which adds an extra layer of assurance to your iMessage discussions. This function notifies you whenever unrecognized device keys are identified, giving you more trust in your messaging exchanges.

Contact Key Verification in iOS 17.2
Contact Key Verification provides automatic alerts when iMessage key distribution services identify unverified device keys, such as those from an unfamiliar device added to your iMessage account. This extra security measure is especially valuable when used in person, during FaceTime calls, or through other secure methods. While rare, this feature demonstrates Apple’s commitment to staying ahead of potential threats and ensuring user peace of mind.

Contact key verification in the iMessage app:

Before you begin, make sure that all of your iCloud-connected devices are running iOS 17.2, macOS 14.2, or watchOS 10.2. If not, consider logging out of iMessage on devices where you don’t want the feature enabled.

• Open the Settings app on your iPhone running iOS 17.2.
• At the top of the screen, tap your name.
• Swipe down to the bottom of the screen and choose “Contact Key Verification.”
• To enable CKV, toggle the switch next to “Verification in iMessage.”.
• To finish the activation procedure, simply follow the on-screen directions.

Making Use of Contact Key Verification
Once active, CKV provides various functions:
Automatic Alerts: Receive alerts that assist you in confirming that you are speaking with the intended people.
Unique Codes: In the Messages app, generate and compare unique codes with your contacts for further identity verification.
Share your public verification code on social media so that people may validate your identity when texting you. Similarly, save other people’s codes in the Contacts app for future use.

Conclusion
Use this function properly, and keep in mind that if someone sends you a Public Verification Code, make sure it matches the one on their social media profile before continuing the conversation. This provides an extra degree of security to your iMessage exchanges, safeguarding you against any dangers.