Update your iPhone: Apple just pushed out a significant security update
Apple has rolled out a crucial security update for iPhones and iPads on Thursday, aimed at addressing newly discovered vulnerabilities in the devices’ system software. This move comes in response to a recent revelation by researchers from the University of Toronto’s Citizen Lab, who uncovered a software flaw actively exploited by malicious actors to deploy commercial spyware known as Pegasus, developed and marketed by the Israeli firm NSO Group.
Pegasus is a sophisticated and expensive surveillance tool primarily employed to target individuals such as dissidents, journalists, and political adversaries. As a result, everyday users are unlikely to be the main targets of such attacks. Nevertheless, Citizen Lab strongly advises all users to take immediate action and update their devices to safeguard against potential security breaches.
To install the update, users can follow these steps:
- Open the “Settings” application on your iPhone or iPad.
- Select “General” from the list of options.
- Choose “Software Update” from the available menu.
Once in the “Software Update” section, you should be able to locate the iOS 16.6.1 software update. Simply tap on it to commence the installation process.
If you do not see the update immediately, don’t panic. Follow these additional steps:
- Return to the “General” page within the “Settings” app.
- Select “About” to check your current iOS version number. If it reads as 16.6.1, you already have the update installed.
- If your device is still running iOS 16.6 or an earlier version, please repeat the previously mentioned steps.
- If, after doing so, you still do not see the update, consider restarting your device.
- Ensure that your internet connection is stable, and then wait for a brief period before attempting the update once more.
By promptly applying this security update, users can bolster their device’s defenses against potential threats and enjoy a safer digital experience. Apple’s commitment to addressing vulnerabilities underscores the company’s dedication to user security and privacy.
Gary P Hernal started college at UP Diliman and received his BA in Economics from San Sebastian College, Manila, and Masters in Information Systems Management from Keller Graduate School of Management of DeVry University in Oak Brook, IL. He has 25 years of copy editing and management experience at Thomson West, a subsidiary of Thomson Reuters.
