Tag: iPhone security

  • iPhone users may be able to lock Messages, Photos in iOS 18

    iPhone users may be able to lock Messages, Photos in iOS 18

    The upcoming iOS 18 is anticipated to introduce a new security feature that allows users to lock individual apps, according to several sources familiar with the development.

    This feature is set to provide users with the ability to lock native iPhone apps such as Mail, Messages, Notes, Phone, Photos, Safari, and Settings, among others, thereby offering an additional layer of privacy and security.

    To unlock a locked app, users will need to authenticate via Face ID, and it is expected that Touch ID or an iPhone’s passcode will also be compatible with this feature.

    It remains unconfirmed whether this functionality will extend to third-party apps from the App Store.

    Currently, Apple permits certain content to be secured behind Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode, such as notes in the Notes app and photos in the “Recently Deleted” and “Hidden” albums within the Photos app.

    The upcoming iOS 18 feature will expand this capability, allowing for entire apps to be locked, even when the iPhone itself is unlocked.

    iPhone users have previously resorted to using Screen Time or Shortcuts to lock apps, but these methods will become obsolete with the new iOS 18 functionality.

    Apple is set to unveil iOS 18 during its WWDC keynote on Monday. The initial iOS 18 beta is expected to be available to Apple Developer Program members immediately following the keynote, with a public release anticipated in September.

  • Urgent security alert: Apple users must update to iOS 16.6.1 immediately

    Urgent security alert: Apple users must update to iOS 16.6.1 immediately

    Are you in possession of an iPhone or iPad? It is imperative that you promptly initiate the update process for your Apple devices.

    Apple has issued an urgent advisory, urging users to install iOS 16.6.1 or iPadOS 16.6.1 without delay.

    This essential update addresses critical security vulnerabilities, as per Apple’s warning, which have the potential to be exploited, endangering the security of iPhones and iPads. In the words of the company: “The processing of a maliciously crafted image may result in arbitrary code execution.”

    Furthermore, Apple acknowledges the existence of a report suggesting that this issue may already have been actively exploited.

    This cautionary notice underscores the possibility that malicious actors may have already begun exploiting these security weaknesses.

    The vulnerabilities in question encompass one within the ImageIO framework, responsible for handling various image file formats and accessing image metadata, and another within the Wallet system.

    It is of utmost importance to act swiftly to safeguard your device and personal data.