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Apple says iPhone bug may have been actively exploited - here's what to do

By Anam Hamid

Published: Feb 14, 2023, 6:31 AM

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Apple says iPhone bug may have been actively exploited - here's what to do

Apple recently released software updates for the iPhone and iPad and users must download them right away. That's because they contain a fix for an actively exploited issue.

On the surface, the iOS 16.3.1 and iPadOS 16.3.1 updates may not look that exciting because they don't bring any new features, but they contain fixes for problems with iCloud settings and Siri, optimizations, and security updates.

Most importantly, iOS 16.3.1 and iPadOS 16.3.1 address a WebKit vulnerability that may have been exploited in the wild by cybercriminals. WebKit is a browser engine that is used by Safari, Mail, App Store, and other apps. A single vulnerability in it can affect all apps that are based on it.

An in-the-wild vulnerability is a threat that's spreading among real-world devices and may put ordinary users at risk.

The WebKit vulnerability may allow bad actors to run any command on affected iPhones and iPads remotely. It must be patched quickly because it's being actively exploited by hackers.

The updates also seek to fix a Kernel vulnerability that may allow apps to execute commands with kernel privileges. This can allow hackers to take over the entire machine. Thankfully, no one appears to have taken advantage of this flaw.

Per TechCrunch, it's highly unlikely that a hacker will exploit the bugs to target an average iPhone user, but it's still recommended that you update your phone and avoid taking any risks.

Caught between a rock and a hard place

It's also worth mentioning that iOS 16.3.1 seems to have broken the Google Photos app. Multiple users have reported that the update is causing the app to crash. So, you'll have to decide what is more important to you: a smoothly working Google Photos app or a secure iPhone and iPad.

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Anam Hamid is a computer scientist turned tech journalist who has a keen interest in the tech world, with a particular focus on smartphones and tablets. She has previously written for Android Headlines and has also been a ghostwriter for several tech and car publications. Anam is not a tech hoarder and believes in using her gadgets for as long as possible. She is concerned about smartphone addiction and its impact on future generations, but she also appreciates the convenience that phones have brought into our lives. Anam is excited about technological advancements like folding screens and under-display sensors, and she often wonders about the future of technology. She values the overall experience of a device more than its individual specs and admires companies that deliver durable, high-quality products. In her free time, Anam enjoys reading, scrolling through Reddit and Instagram, and occasionally refreshing her programming skills through tutorials.

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