Apple warns its customers that a vast majority of its devices are flawed and vulnerable to a dangerous attack.
According to Apple, the uncorrected known vulnerability could allow “processing maliciously crafted web content may lead to arbitrary code execution.”
That’s tech speak which means a hacker could take control of your Apple device if not fixed.
More concerning is the security threat reality in Apple’s warning saying “Apple is aware of a report that this issue may have been actively exploited.” While offering no details, we can read between the lines to learn ongoing attacks are likely underway.
Don’t wait for automatic updates
A faster way to get the latest operating software when you know there is some urgency such as now is to update it yourself manually without delay. Every second your device remains unpatched is an invitation for trouble.
Impacted iPhone, iPad, and Mac devices
- iPhone 6
- iPhone 6s
- iPhone 6s Plus
- iPhone SE
- iPhone 7
- iPhone 7 Plus
- iPhone 8
- iPhone 8 Plus
- iPhone X
- iPhone XS
- iPhone XS Max
- iPhone XR
- iPhone 11
- iPhone 11 Pro
- iPhone 11 Pro Max
- iPhone 12
- iPhone 12 Mini
- iPhone 12 Pro
- iPhone 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 13
- iPhone 13 Mini
- iPhone 13 Pro
- iPhone 13 Pro Max
- iPad Pro (all models)
- iPad Air 2nd gen and newer
- iPad Mini 3rd gen and newer
- iPad 5th gen and newer
- Mac and Macbook running OSx Monterey operating software
- some more recent iPod models
How to manually update Apple software now
iPhone and iPad
Tap Settings > select General > then tap Software Update > select Install Now and follow instructions
Mac and MacBook
Click the Apple logo from the top left corner of your screen > click About this Mac > then Software Update > click Update Now if an update is available
What if you don’t see an update available on your computer?
If you’re not being receiving the latest Apple software update, here’s what it means.
Do I have to update my software or can I just ignore the updates?
We strongly suggest you update your software to keep your computer safe. Updates are most often focused on filling in a gaping flaw in the operating system discovered by hackers.
Always backup before updating
As a word of caution, if you’re not doing this already, be sure to always back up your devices in case something goes wrong.
Believe me, I’ve been on the wrong side of an operating software update where my computer would no longer work and when it did somehow boot up, it was as sluggish as a snail. If you have a backup, you can always restore your computer or device, which is a much better option than losing everything. More here:
- How to back up your Windows or Mac computer
- How to determine how much storage is needed to back up your computer
- How to Back-up your devices the right way
Why operating software fixes are increasing
It’s not your imagination that Apple devices are coming under greater attack. And the biggest challenge is overcoming the gap between a known threat and weeks to months later when it is patched with a software update.
Lock up your tech
As evidenced by these continuous security patches, as a safeguard, always be sure to keep antivirus protection running on your devices in the background. Our top choice for Antivirus software for Apple devices (as well as Windows & Android devices) is TotalAV. You’ll have peace of mind knowing you’ll have real-time protection, phishing scam protection, ransomware protection plus more. Limited time deal for CyberGuy friends $19 your first year (80% off). You can check out our review of other antivirus apps, here: Best Antivirus Security Software and Apps to Protect You 2022.
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