iOS 8 has a "killswitch" to help lower theft

CUPERTINO, Calif., Sept. 19 (UPI) -- Apple has taken a big step to cut down on the number of iPhones stolen.

To do that the technology giant has installed a "killswitch" in its new operating system -- iOS 8.

Unlike previous operating systems, iOS 8 already has the feature activated.

The killswitch or activation lock is part of the "Find my iPhone" app.

The feature will allow users to not only lock the stolen phone, but it also keeps thieves from wiping the phone clean.

It's important to note that the killswitch is on by default.

Law enforcement says that since Apple activated the kilswitch last year thefts of the iPhone have dropped significantly.