iPhone users, it’s time to go to your settings app once again, as Apple has released a new update that patches a security breach that could leave devices susceptible to criminals.
According to a report from TechRadar, the security breach could allow criminals to bypass passcodes in order to pull data from devices even though they are locked.
To fix the issue, Apple released a new update to the software used on its phones and iPads, iOS 18.3.1 and iPadOS 18.3.1. The patch is meant to fix the issue that could allow USB Restricted Mode to be disabled on a locked device.
“Apple is aware of a report that this issue may have been exploited in an extremely sophisticated attack against specific targeted individuals,” the company warned.
However, Apple did not confirm any details about the potential security threat on its website.
“For our customers’ protection, Apple doesn’t disclose, discuss, or confirm security issues until an investigation has occurred and patches or releases are available. Recent releases are listed on the Apple security releases page,” its website says.
USB Restricted Mode was reportedly made as a “GrayKey,” which reports describe as a hacking tool meant to help law enforcement gain access to data on devices. Apple has denied that the government has access to its devices and has famously defended the right to privacy of its users.
If devices aren’t updated, they are susceptible to access by hackers or even law enforcement.
The software update released by Apple is available for iPhone XS and later, iPad Pro 13-inch, iPad Pro 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, and iPad mini 5th generation and later.
As for Apple’s other products, there are no security alerts, but updates have been issued for Macs, Apple Watches, and Vision Pros.
If you need help updating your device, visit Apple’s support page here for step-by-step instructions.