Cyprus Times

Apple Issues Urgent Security Update for iPhone and iPad

Published December 31, 2025, 20:04
Apple Issues Urgent Security Update for iPhone and iPad

Apple has issued an urgent warning to iPhone and iPad users, urging them to install the latest software updates immediately to protect themselves from serious cybersecurity threats. The company identified two critical security vulnerabilities in WebKit, the browser engine used by Safari and other apps on iOS and iPadOS. These vulnerabilities could allow attackers to gain access to the device or execute malicious code through specially crafted websites. The software updates (iOS 17.2 and iPadOS 17.2) include fixes for "use-after-free" and memory corruption bugs, which were addressed with improved handling of temporary data and stricter checks, respectively. Apple does not disclose details about security vulnerabilities before releasing updates to protect its users. The devices most affected are iPhone 11 and newer, as well as various models of iPad Pro, iPad Air, iPad, and iPad mini. Users who have automatic software updates enabled have likely already received the fixes. Apple collaborated with Google's Threat Analysis team to identify these vulnerabilities, which are classified as "zero-day" because they were unknown before being exploited. Immediately installing the updates is crucial to protect against potential attacks, as advised by cybersecurity expert Kurt Knutsson.