Apple has released an update to address security flaws on its iPhone, iPad, and Mac devices that it claims hackers have “actively exploited.”
According to the tech firm, the new software “provides important security updates and is recommended for all users.”
According to industry experts, the flaw could allow hackers to control affected devices completely.
The update is now available for the iPhone 6s and later, the iPad Pro, the iPad Air 2 and later, and the iPad 5th generation and later.
It is also compatible with the iPad mini 4 and later versions, as well as the iPod touch (7th generation). Users of macOS Monterey are encouraged to update as well.
Apple stated that hackers exploited the flaw to gain access to WebKit, the engine that powers Apple’s web browser Safari. The exploit could be used by hackers if the user accessed “maliciously-crafted web content,” according to the technology company.
So far, no specific reports of the security flaw being used against people or devices have been confirmed.
Software updates are an everyday (and sometimes vexing) part of our modern tech lives, but this is one update that should not be overlooked.
The cyber-security community is understandably concerned about the potential power that hackers could wield if they target a device vulnerable to this attack.
As a result, it’s prudent to check the settings on your Apple devices and apply the patch.
Even better, enable automatic updates.
There is no reason for concern for the vast majority of users because there is no evidence that hackers exploited the security flaw to launch mass attacks against the general public.
It should also be noted that the social media outcry over the security update may have been exaggerated.
Apple has released similar emergency security updates throughout the year, most recently in March without much fanfare or panic.
“Apple does not disclose, discuss, or confirm security issues until an investigation has occurred and patches or releases are available,” according to the company’s security update page.