A new flaw in Apple devices has been discovered that could have been used to install spyware on iPhones and iPads. The flaw, which affects all versions of iOS and iPadOS up to and including iOS 16, allows attackers to install a malicious profile on a device without the user’s knowledge.
The flaw was discovered by researchers at the University of Toronto’s Citizen Lab. They said that the flaw could have been exploited by the NSO Group, an Israeli company that sells spyware to governments.
NSO’s Pegasus spyware is one of the most sophisticated pieces of spyware in the world. It can be used to track a target’s location, read their messages, and even record their calls.
Apple has released a patch for the flaw in iOS 16.5.1. Users are advised to update their devices as soon as possible.
The discovery of this new flaw is a reminder that no device is completely secure. It is important to be aware of the latest security threats and to take steps to protect your devices.
Here are some tips for protecting your Apple devices from spyware:
- Keep your devices up to date with the latest software.
- Use a strong password and enable two-factor authentication.
- Be careful about what apps you install.
- Be wary of links in emails and text messages.
- Use a VPN when connecting to public Wi-Fi.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your Apple devices safe from spyware and other security threats.
In addition to the tips above, here are some additional things you can do to protect your Apple devices from spyware:
- Only install apps from trusted sources, such as the App Store.
- Be careful about what information you share online.
- Use a security app to scan your device for malware.
By being aware of the latest security threats and taking steps to protect your devices, you can help to keep your personal information safe.
Here are some additional details about the flaw:
- The flaw is in the way that Apple handles provisioning profiles. Provisioning profiles are used to manage apps and other features on Apple devices.
- The flaw allows attackers to create a malicious provisioning profile that appears to be from a legitimate source.
- Once the malicious provisioning profile is installed, attackers can then install other malicious software on the device.
Apple has said that it is “committed to protecting our users’ privacy and security.” The company has also said that it is “working to identify and address any potential vulnerabilities.”
The discovery of this new flaw is a reminder that no device is completely secure. It is important to be aware of the latest security threats and to take steps to protect your devices.
