The alerts you’re receiving about incoming connection requests from local IP addresses can indeed be unsettling, especially when it comes to the security of your Apple device and home network. Generally, these notifications are not unusual and can arise from legitimate activity. For example, your device may be attempting to communicate with other devices on your local network, such as printers or smart home devices, or certain applications might be trying to update or access network features. It’s also important to remember that software and apps often send out requests to establish connections, and many of these processes occur without any indication of nefarious intent. That said, it’s wise to remain vigilant, as a sudden increase in alerts could technically indicate unauthorized access attempts if you notice a significant increase in suspicious requests.

To alleviate your concerns, you can take a few proactive steps. First, review the apps installed on your device and see if any of them require network permissions that don’t align with their intended functions. Go into your device settings to manage app permissions and limit access where possible. Additionally, check your network settings, including any enabled features like port forwarding, which can allow connections from the outside to your local devices, potentially exposing them to external threats. If you’re feeling particularly anxious about your network’s security, consider changing your Wi-Fi password and enhance your router’s configuration by using a strong firewall and disabling unnecessary services. Monitoring your network for unusual activity can also be beneficial. Ultimately, maintaining an informed and cautious approach will help you feel more secure against potential threats while utilizing your device seamlessly.