Critical Flaws Could Give Hackers Control of Your Device
In an emergency move, Apple has rolled out crucial security updates for a range of its devices including iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple Watches. The tech giant confirms that these patches are designed to fix two alarming vulnerabilities that have already been exploited, putting millions of devices at potential risk.
Two Major Security Loopholes
The first vulnerability revolves around an ImageIO issue, where a malicious image could be used to execute arbitrary code on your device. This means that by simply opening an infected image, you could unknowingly grant cybercriminals complete control over your device.
The second loophole is associated with the Wallet app. A malicious attachment could be surreptitiously added to your Wallet, which then gives attackers the capability to hijack your device.
Who Needs to Update?
Apple Security has released iOS 16.6.1 for iPhones and iPadOS 16.6.1 for iPads, addressing both vulnerabilities. These updates are compatible with iPhone 8 and later, all iPad Pro models, iPad Air 3rd generation and onwards, iPad 5th generation and onwards, as well as iPad mini 5th generation and later.
For Mac users, Apple has released macOS Ventura 13.5.2, which contains the patch for the ImageIO vulnerability. Apple Watch users with Series 4 and newer should update to watchOS 9.6.2 to fix the Wallet loophole.
Act Fast: Flaws Already Exploited
It is critical to understand that both vulnerabilities have been exploited, making it paramount to install these updates immediately.
How to Update Your Devices Right Now
iPhone or iPad: Navigate to Settings > General > Software Update and click on “Download and Install” under iOS 16.6.1. Enter your passcode and wait for the update to install.
Mac: Head to System Settings > General > Software Update and click “Update Now” on macOS Ventura 13.5.2.
Apple Watch: Updates can be found either in the Watch app on your iPhone under General > Software Update or directly on the watch itself from Settings > General > Software Update.
Users are urged to act swiftly and update all affected Apple devices to protect against these critical vulnerabilities. Learn More about protecting your devices. Don’t ignore this urgent call to action.
