On Friday, Apple released iOS 16.4.1 to iPhone users with an immediate update warning. In fact, the release includes fixes for vulnerabilities used in cyberattacks to hack iPhones.
As usual, Apple didn't share many details about the iOS 16.4.1 security patches to prevent attackers from getting as much information as they need to launch an attack and give as many people as possible time to update their iPhones.
iOS 16.4.1 fixes two vulnerabilities, both of which were used in real-world attacks, and Apple says it is aware of a report that these vulnerabilities are being actively exploited.
The first vulnerability (CVE-2023-28205) discovered in WebKit, Apple's Safari browser engine, could allow attackers to run code on your device, according to Apple support page.
during this time; a second vulnerability (CVE-2023-28206) fixed by Apple in iOS 16.4.1; A flaw in IOSurfaceAccelerator could allow applications to execute arbitrary code at the operating system kernel level.
Besides fixing these vulnerabilities, iOS 16.4.1 also fixes the unresponsive Siri voice assistant that iPhone users have been complaining about in recent days.
Needless to say, the two vulnerabilities fixed by iOS 16.4.1 are so serious that they prompted Apple to release the update over the weekend, which is very rare as Apple usually releases updates on Monday or Tuesday. The company has decided that the iOS 16.4.1 upgrades are too big to wait. It is also impossible to know the details of the attacks and who targeted them.
How to update your iPhone to iOS 16.4.1:
Before you start installing the update on your phone, make sure to make a fresh backup of your data to avoid any surprises. Also, make sure that your phone is connected to a charger and connected to the Internet via WiFi.
By default, your iPhone should automatically back up your data every night when your iPhone is connected to a charger and Wi-Fi, but this only happens when automatic backup is turned on.
If this feature is not enabled, you can save a backup manually by following these steps:
Before you start saving backups, make sure you have enough iCloud storage.
- Go to Settings on your iPhone.
- Click on your name and then click on the (iCloud) option.
- Click iCloud Backup.
- Click on the (Backup Now) option and make sure you have a strong Wi-Fi connection before the process is completed.
After making sure that your data is backed up, you can update your iPhone to the latest iOS version by following these steps:
- Go to Settings on your iPhone.
- Click General Options.
- Click on the Software Update (Update Operating System) option. When a new update is available, you will most likely see a notification that it is ready. Click on the download and install option.
- Accept the Terms of Service and iOS 16.4.1 will be installed on your iPhone in minutes.