Apple device users should schedule some time for an update today. Because although iOS 17 is only a few weeks away from its release, there is now another important security update for the existing iOS 16 and also for iPadOS, watchOS, macOS and tvOS. macOS 13.5 alone ships with nearly 30 patched vulnerabilities.
Apple is aware that some of the vulnerabilities are already being actively exploited (zero-day exploits) – so it is urgent.
Apple has also released updates for the previous versions iOS 15 and iPadOS 15, as well as macOS Monterey and macOS Big Sur. This points to widespread and serious security loopholes that these updates are supposed to close.
For example, Apple devices can be hacked through a hole in iMessage without the victim having to open a link (zero-click exploit).
The explanation of the updates mentions a slew of other security-related issues that Apple has since addressed.
Affected:
- the Apple Neural Engine (a bug here allows arbitrary code to run).
- the app «Where is?» (reveals location details).
- the core of the operating system (execution of any possible code, manipulation of the core possible, access rights for users can be increased).
- Webkit, Apple’s core system for rendering web content (web content can execute arbitrary code).
A particularly serious vulnerability in Apple’s WebKit Safari engine meant that visiting an infected website or reading a crafted email was enough to get hacked. Apple had previously closed this gap with an emergency update.
The gaps that have now been fixed also pose a serious risk to affected devices – users should install the update on their devices as soon as possible.
The above errors also apply to the operating systems of iPad, Apple Watch, Apple TV and Mac. These devices should also receive an update as soon as possible.
In total, Apple has closed eleven critical “zero day” vulnerabilities so far this year.
To update your iPhone, open the “Settings” app. From here, select General > Software Updates. After a short search, the device shows whether an update is available and offers to install it.
(oli/t-online)
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Source: Watson
I’m Ella Sammie, author specializing in the Technology sector. I have been writing for 24 Instatnt News since 2020, and am passionate about staying up to date with the latest developments in this ever-changing industry.
