• Source:JND
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India's Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) has issued an Apple device security alert, which particularly draws attention to devices liable to security risks from lower versions of operating system software. Apple users are highlighted specifically due to a more critical problem faced on their devices. These issues, which are rated high, can even give access to hackers to sensitive information, increase their access, bypass security and protections and even crash devices.

If you are an Apple device owner, precaution is best taken by updating to the latest software.

Which Devices Are Affected

CERT-In advisory CIVN-2025-0163 has listed Apple devices and their respective operating versions; thus, Cyber issues stem from errors in the logic and memory handling of devices.

 

  • iPhone: iOS versions earlier than 18.6
  • iPad: iPadOS versions earlier than 17.7.9 and 18.6
  • Mac:
    • macOS Sequoia before 15.6
    • macOS Sonoma before 14.7.7
    • macOS Ventura before 13.7.7

 

  • Apple Watch: watchOS before 11.6
  • Apple TV: tvOS before 18.6
  • Apple Vision Pro: visionOS before 2.6

These bugs stem from memory handling issues, logic errors, and flawed privilege controls, making them highly exploitable.

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What’s at Risk

CERT-In has warned of remote access breaches through the following risks:

 

  • Remote code execution
  • Security bypasses
  • Data theft or manipulation
  • Denial of Service (DoS)—leading to crashes and system downtime

 

As previously discussed, users with older Apple devices run the risk of becoming the target for hackers who can compromise their data, privacy settings and system security in an attempt to steal money or personal information from them. This poses serious threats to their privacy settings and security measures, as well as data.

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How to Stay Safe

As with all security vulnerabilities, Apple has provided security updates through the Over the Air (OTA) updates. Follow the below for the update procedure:

 

 

  • iPhone or iPad:

Head to Settings → General → Software Update, then install the latest version.

 

 

 

  • Mac:

Go to System Settings → General → Software Update.

 

 

  • Apple Watch:

Open the Watch app on your iPhone and head to →General → Software Update.

 

 

  • Apple TV or Vision Pro:

Update from the device’s Settings menu.

 

For enterprise users who have several Apple devices, deploying these updates needs to be prioritised.

If you own an Apple device, don't postpone the device update. The risks posed are devastating, can be used without your knowledge, and are too great to ignore. Install the updates now and safeguard your information and devices.