How to disable text replies when your iPhone is locked
Although this story has a happy ending, you should take a moment to review the security settings on your iPhone. Flipping a few software switches will ensure that your iPhone cannot be easily used for fraud.
To start, make sure your message previews are set to show only when your iPhone is unlocked. You’ll find that from Settings > Messages > Notifications > Show Previews. For good measure, make sure all notification previews are set this way as well from Settings > Notifications > Show Previews.
You should also take a moment to review the other actions available by default from a locked iPhone. Start by going to Settings > Face ID & Passcode, then enter your passcode. Scroll to the bottom and go to the Allow Access When Locked section. Ideally, you should consider disabling the following:
- Reply with Message (offers the ability to reply to missed calls with a message)
- Return Missed Calls
- Wallet
- Notification Center
- Home Control
- Siri
You can also go to Settings > Siri & Search and disable Allow Siri When Locked to be on the safe side.