Criminals have been able to take control of iPhones, iPads, and Macs. Apple recommends updating the system quickly.
Anyone who owns Apple devices should update the system as soon as possible. Two vulnerabilities threaten iPhones, iPads and Mac computers, the security gaps may have already been exploited by attackers. That’s why Apple has released new updates for iOS, iPadOS and macOS. The group advises users to install the updates quickly.
“Put simply, a cybercriminal could place malware on your device just by looking at an otherwise harmless website,” warned IT security firm Sophos. The two gaps were in the kernel, the central part of the operating system, and in Apple’s WebKit software, which is used to display content in web browsers. Attackers could use this to gain extensive access to the device and tap data.
The operating system of iPhones and iPads should to version 15.6.1 be updated. This update closes the gap. Anyone who uses Macs and MacBooks should update on macOS Monterey 12.5.1 to install. On an iPhone, this can be done in the settings under “General > Software update”. Automatic updates can also be activated there. This is useful to keep the operating system up to date and to protect against vulnerabilities.
Apple refers to the current security gaps on tips from an anonymous researcher. Many corporations, including Apple, pay rewards for reporting vulnerabilities. Such attack possibilities are valuable, some of them are also sold on the black market. Then they take advantage of secret services, criminals or developers of surveillance software.