Two-factor authentication codes that are bothersome can be automatically deleted in iOS 17. How to Do It Here

When iOS 17 was released earlier in the fall, it gave compatible iPhones access to a plethora of new features. This includes the Journal app, the new StandBy mode, the ability to make your own contact poster, and more. One of these new features is the ability to set your phone to automatically delete all two-factor authentication codes that are sent to your mail or iMessage inboxes. It’s a small but powerful feature.

An easy-to-use but effective method of protecting your data is two-factor authentication. You can reduce the likelihood that your information will be stolen by having a service send a code to your device when you log in to your account. That can get a little untidy, though, if the codes that are sent straight to your email or messaging apps are continually filling up your messages app.

To use this new feature, simply toggle one setting, and your account’s two-factor authentication codes will be automatically removed, clearing out your inboxes.

How can I automatically delete two-factor authentication codes?

On iOS 17, if you want to turn on the option to automatically delete your two-factor authentication codes, you’ll first need to go into your Settings on your phone. After you’ve opened your settings, navigate to the Passwords tab. Then tap Passwords. (You may need to unlock your phone.) Now tap Password Options scroll down to the Verification Codes section and enable Clean Up Automatically.

You ought to be good to go once you turn that one. Don’t worry, though; this will only remove authentication codes that you have already used. It won’t automatically remove any unused codes. You can do this in the Mail app as well, so your inboxes will all be spotless.