HIGHLIGHTS

The Indian government-supported Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) has raised an urgent alert for users of iPhone and iPad devices.

A serious security vulnerability enables attackers to circumvent USB Restricted Mode, which was implemented to block unauthorized data access through the Lightning port.

This security flaw affects iPhones and iPads operating on iOS and iPadOS versions older than 18.3.1 and 17.7.5, depending on the device model.

The Computer Emergency Response Team of India (CERT-In), an initiative backed by the government, has issued a warning of high severity that specifically targets iPhone and iPad users. This warning draws attention to a significant security vulnerability that threatens devices running outdated versions of iOS and iPadOS (earlier than 18.3.1). Consequently, users face heightened risks of data breaches and unauthorized access to sensitive information. Thus, if you’re an iPhone or iPad user, it is paramount that you prioritize updating your device without delay to maintain security.

What’s the Concern?

This identified vulnerability, which has come to light through research in cybersecurity, poses a serious threat to multiple Apple devices. The issue affects iPhones starting from the XS model and iPads from the 7th generation onward. The flaw specifically allows malicious actors to evade the USB Restricted Mode—a feature designed to prevent unauthorized data access via the Lightning port, thereby increasing the risk of data exploitation.

Which Devices Are Vulnerable?

If you own an iPhone or iPad running on software versions that are older than 18.3.1 or 17.7.5, you should be cautious as the following devices are affected:

• iPhone XS and newer models
• iPad Pro (13-inch, 12.9-inch 3rd generation and later)
• iPad Pro (11-inch 1st generation and later)
• iPad Air 3rd generation and later
• iPad (7th generation and later)
• iPad mini (5th generation and later)

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How to Secure Your Device?

To protect your personal information, you can take the following precautionary steps to update your iPhone or iPad:

• **Backup Your Device:** First, ensure that your data is backed up using iCloud or your desktop/laptop.
• **Connect to Wi-Fi and Power:** Make sure your device is connected to a stable Wi-Fi connection and is plugged into a power source.
• **Check for Software Updates:** Navigate to Settings > General > Software Update to look for available updates.

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To fortify the security of your device against future vulnerabilities, it is advisable to enable automatic updates. You can do this by going to Settings > General > Software Update and turning on Automatic Updates.

In summary, the most effective way to mitigate these risks is to ensure that your device is always up-to-date with the latest software. Regular updates form the first line of defense in keeping your information secure.