Recovery Key
Account Recovery
Optional
Consider using a Recovery Key if you want greater control over Apple Account recovery and can store it securely.
What this setting does
A Recovery Key is a unique 28-character code that gives you greater control over recovering your Apple Account. When enabled, it replaces Apple’s standard account-recovery process and can help prevent an attacker from using that process to take control of your account.
Important notes
Turning on a Recovery Key disables Apple’s standard account-recovery process. If you lose access to your trusted devices and cannot provide your Recovery Key, you can be permanently locked out of your Apple Account.
Store the Recovery Key somewhere secure and separate from the Apple Account it protects. Apple specifically advises against storing it in iCloud Photos, Notes, iCloud Drive, or the Passwords app because those services may be unavailable if you lose account access.
Advanced Data Protection requires at least one alternative recovery method. A Recovery Key can satisfy that requirement, but a Recovery Contact can be used instead. If both are configured, either can be used to regain access.