| Updated: Tuesday, November 12, 2024, 17:39 [IST]
Apple users in India are being urged to take immediate action after a cybersecurity alert from the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) warned of critical vulnerabilities across several Apple operating systems. These flaws, spanning iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, tvOS, visionOS, and even the Safari browser, could put sensitive user data at risk and enable attackers to take control of devices remotely.
A Broad Range of Affected Devices
The CERT-In advisory highlights vulnerabilities that could allow cybercriminals to access and manipulate Apple devices without any user interaction. This leaves iPhones, iPads, Macs, Apple Watches, Apple TVs, and Safari users exposed to the risk of remote code execution, which could compromise everything from private banking information to confidential work documents.
The affected operating systems include iOS and iPadOS versions prior to 18.1 and 17.7.1, macOS Sequoia versions before 15.1 and 14.7.1, macOS Ventura versions earlier than 13.7.1, watchOS versions prior to 11.1, tvOS versions before 18.1, visionOS versions earlier than 2.1, and Safari versions before 18.1.
Potential Consequences of Inaction
The vulnerabilities described in the advisory are serious. Unauthorized access and the ability for attackers to escalate privileges could lead to data theft, device malfunction, or worse, a complete loss of control over the affected device. Given the widespread use of Apple devices, this becomes not just a personal issue but a broader cybersecurity concern for organizations relying on Apple products.
The risks are particularly alarming considering that cybercriminals can exploit these vulnerabilities remotely, with no need for users to click on suspicious links or take any action. This makes the flaws even harder to detect and mitigate, especially for users who may not be aware of the dangers lurking in outdated software.
Steps to Protect Your Devices
CERT-In has strongly advised all Apple users to update their devices immediately to the latest software versions to patch these security flaws. Software updates are available directly through your device settings, where users can easily check and install the latest updates to secure their devices.
Failing to update leaves Apple devices open to cyberattacks, including unauthorized access to sensitive data. Whether it’s for personal privacy or organizational security, keeping devices up-to-date is the best defense against these vulnerabilities.
Best Mobiles in India
-
1,29,999
-
22,999
-
64,999
-
99,999
-
29,999
-
39,999
-
-
63,999
-
1,56,900
-
96,949
-
1,39,900
-
1,29,900
-
79,900
-
65,900
-
12,999
-
96,949
-
16,499
-
38,999
-
30,700
-
49,999
-
19,999
-
17,970
-
21,999
-
13,474
-
18,999
-
22,999
-
19,999
-
17,999
-
26,999
-
5,999