Apple's 'Lockdown Mode' will protect iPhones, iPads and Macs from state-sponsored hackers
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Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) said on Wednesday that it will release a new feature known as "Lockdown Mode" as part of the latest operating systems for its iPhones, iPads and Macs in an effort to protect users from state-sponsored hackers.
In a statement on its website, the tech giant said the move is "an extreme, optional protection for the very small number of users who face grave, targeted threats to their digital security."
Apple (AAPL) iPhones have been the subject of repeated hacks from NSO Group, an Israeli-based firm largely known for its Pegasus spyware. Apple (AAPL) is currently suing NSO Group and the company has been blacklisted by the U.S. government.
Once Lockdown Mode is turned on, Apple (AAPL) said it "further hardens defenses" while also strictly limiting certain functions. 
For example, most message attachments other than images are blocked and link previews are disabled. Several web browsing technologies, such as just-in-time JavaScript compilation are also disabled.
Incoming invitations and service requests, such as a FaceTime call, are blocked if the iPhone user has not previously sent a call or request to the initiator. 
Lastly, Apple (AAPL) said wired connections with a computer or accessory are blocked when the iPhone is locked. The tech giant also said that more features would come to Lockdown Mode "over time."
In addition, Apple (AAPL) said it would pay $2M for each flaw that was discovered in Lockdown Mode, known as a "bug bounty." The company also said it would make a $10M grant and transfer any proceeds from its lawsuit against NSO Group to support organizations that expose cyberattacks.
The grant will go to the Dignity and Justice Fund established and advised by the Ford Foundation.
Apple (AAPL) recently lowered the trade-in values for select iPhones, iPads, Macs and Apple Watch versions, as the tech giant gets ready for a product refresh later this year.