If you've not yet switched over to one of the newer iPhone models you definitely need to head to your settings and download the very latest update from Apple. The US technology firm has just released an urgent iOS upgrade and it's vital that it's installed as soon as possible.
This important patch, which is being pushed out to models including the iPhone 7, iPhone 6 and iPhone SE, fixes a number of flaws including one that's been given a so-called zero-day rating.
For those not clued up on this terminology, that zero-day stamp means hackers are aware of the flaw and are actively exploiting it. That's why there's an urgency to update devices as soon as possible.
If you own any of the iPhones listed below then head to your Settings , tap General then Software Update . Here you should see an update called iOS 15.7.4.
PHONES AFFECTED BY THIS UPDATE INCLUDE
iPhone 6s (all models), iPhone 7 (all models), iPhone SE (1st generation), iPad Pro (all models), iPad Air 2 and later, iPad 5th generation and later, iPad mini 4 and later, and iPod touch (7th generation).
As Apple explains in its release notes, a number of the bug fixes mend problems that could allow cyber thieves to "access user-sensitive data", "execute arbitrary code" and "access information about a user’s contacts."
The vulnerabilities could basically allow a malicious app to execute vicious code which could then be used to steal a range of personal data such as photos, location, private messages, personal contacts, call history or photos.
The US firm has also confirmed that a WebKit vulnerability is known to cyber thieves. "Processing maliciously crafted web content may lead to arbitrary code execution," said the company. "Apple is aware of a report that this issue may have been actively exploited."
Now you might be wondering what happens if you have a newer iPhone running the latest iOS 16 software.
Luckily, as long as you've kept things updated you'll be safe. Apple released a patch for all of the bugs mentioned above back in February.
It's also worth checking newer phones for the latest iOS 16 update released this week with Apple adding new features and extra emojis to some of its devices.
HOW TO CHECK FOR iOS UPDATES
Checking for these iOS updates is simple. All you have to do is head to Settings > General then tap Software Update . Here you should see any pending upgrades that Apple has released to your device.
Just make sure your phone has more than 50% charge and is linked to Wi-Fi as Apple's iOS updates are usually large files that will eat into your mobile data allowance. It's also worth remembering that the device will need to restart itself and will be out of action whilst the installation process takes place so make sure you're not expecting any important calls.
