How to Secure App Store Purchases on iPhone?

If you share your device with kids/family or you’ve had unexpected charges, tightening App Store purchase security is essential. The best approach is combining biometric approval with Screen Time restrictions.

Step 1: Require Face ID/Touch ID for purchases

Open Settings > tap your name.
Tap Media & Purchases > Password Settings (options vary).
Enable required authentication for purchases and disable “Always Require” shortcuts only if you fully trust your environment.

Step 2: Use Screen Time to block purchases (great for families)

Go to Settings > Screen Time.
Tap Content & Privacy Restrictions > turn it on.
Tap iTunes & App Store Purchases and set:
- Installing Apps: Don’t Allow (optional)
- In-app Purchases: Don’t Allow
- Always Require Password: Require

Step 3: Review payment methods

Go to Settings > [your name] > Payment & Shipping and remove old cards you don’t use.

Quick pro/cons of strict purchase protection

Pros: Fewer accidental purchases, better fraud protection.
Cons: More prompts when buying apps.

🤔 Protip:

If you’re managing multiple family devices, Wondershare Dr.Fone can help with backups and device organization so security settings changes don’t risk losing important data during setup.