Sometimes, the right thing to do is the easy thing to do. Thankfully, downloading the latest “important security updates” from Apple happens to fall into that category.
On March 8, Apple released a string of updates for iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and Safari. While servicing different operating systems, they all have one thing in common: According to Apple, not installing them might leave your precious devices exposed.
Let’s start with the updates for iOS 14.4.1 and iPadOS 14.4.1, which are available for all iPhones later than, and including, the 6s, as well as the iPad Air 2 and later, iPad mini 4 and later, and iPod touch (7th generation). Apple notes that the update patches an issue wherein “Processing maliciously crafted web content may lead to arbitrary code execution.”
Important, you say?
Image: Screenshot / iPhone
Arbitrary code execution, for the unaware, essentially means that a hacker can run their own code on a victim’s device (not good!).
The vulnerability has the same possible effect for macOS Big Sur 11.2.3, watchOS 7.3.2, and Safari 14.0.3. For watchOS 7.3.2, the security update is available for Apple Watch Series 3 and later.
Discovery of the vulnerabilities is credited both to Clément Lecigne of Google’s Threat Analysis Group, and Alison Huffman of Microsoft Browser Vulnerability Research.
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To update your iPhone, simply tap your way to Settings > General > Software Update > Download and Install. Make sure your phone is connected to WiFi and plugged in, and you’re good to go.
We told you it’d be easy.