Urgent Apple warning: Every iPhone user should check settings immediately
APPLE has issued an emergency update to fix serious iPhone bugs.
These bugs could be used by hackers to hijack your device.
Apple says there are two bugs that allow rogue apps to "execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges".
That means hackers could use apps to target deep parts of your .
Worse still, Apple says it's aware of reports that the issue "may have been actively exploited" by crooks.
These are "zero-day" bugs – that means the bug was out there and possibly being exploited before a fix was available.
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Thankfully it's now possible to patch the holes just by updating your iPhone.
We reveal how to update your iPhone in detail at the bottom of this article, but a quick way to check is to go to Settings > General > Software Update.
Updating your iPhone regularly is one of the best defences against hackers.
It's how Apple delivers its vital security updates that protect you.
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These updates squash bugs that could be exploited by criminals.
You still need strong passwords and good online hygiene, but security updates are also key.
You should turn automatic updates on for iPhone so that you always have the latest updates.
But it's worth checking manually after new updates too, to make sure you're getting them as fast as possible.
This latest issue was flagged by an anonymous researcher, according to Apple.
The new update is called iOS 15.4.1 and is available for the following devices:
- iPhone 6S or later
- iPad Pro (all models)
- iPad Air 2 or later
- iPad 5th gen or later
- iPad mini 4 or later
- iPod touch (7th gen)
If your device no longer supports iOS updates, considering upgrade very soon to avoid major cybersecurity risks.
How to update your iPhone
Before any major iPhone update, you should make sure to back up your phone.
That's because things can easily go wrong during an update, and you'll want to avoid losing your precious data – like photos or videos.
To do this, simply head into the iCloud settings on your iPhone and turn on the 'iCloud Backup' feature.
Alternatively, plug your phone into iTunes and choose the 'Backup Now' option.
The easiest way to update your iPhone is wirelessly – just follow these simple steps:
- Plug your iPhone into a power socket, and connect to a Wi-Fi network
- Tap Settings > General > Software Update
- Tap 'Download and Install'
- Tap ' Download and Install' to update immediately, or plug you phone in overnight to update automatically while you're asleep.
- You may have to enter your passcode
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If you don't have enough space for the update on your phone, Apple may ask you if it can temporarily remove some apps from your phone.
But don't worry: Apple will reinstall any deleted apps, including any data you had stored on those apps.
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