The giant tech Apple has launched a new version of iOS 10, with the latest software that is focused on improving the security of each device it powers. The software update includes fixes for 13 different security flaws that might allow hackers to access each iPhone users contact, Wi-Fi, device's kernel or unlock features of any iPhone device.
Called the iOS 10.2.1, the update is free to download and is now available for all compatible iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch devices. In addition, the update is available for all iPhones from the iPhone 5 onwards, fourth-generation iPad and up, and as well as iPod touch models starting with the 6th-generation units.
Even though Apple's iOS updates usually include several bug fixes, this newly release update specifically targets bugs that could be compromised by hackers. The iPhone maker said that if anyone fails to update their iPhone or iPad, their devices will always remain vulnerable to attack.
The iPhone maker also explained in its security updates web page that "an application may be able to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges." Fortunately, the flaws were revealed by researchers which suggested that they were not being used in the wild by cyber criminals.
Meanwhile, one of the issues with the kernel is that it would allow an application to execute and run a specific code with the iPhone device. Flaws found in WebKit, a web browser engine that powers the Safari app, could theoretically allow external could to run on any iPhone device.
JP Taggart, senior security researcher at Malwarebytes, said, "It can add files, delete files, or execute any actions."Want to install additional malicious software? It can do that. "Want to hide these actions, programs, and files from the user? It can do that too."
Apple announced that it has released new versions of iTunes, Safari, iCloud for Windows, watchOS, and tvOS. They also rolled out a new version of its desktop OS called MacOS Sierra.
The new version of the MacOS includes a number of stability and security improvements. It's also thought that the latest MacOS update will solve the battery life issues of the MacBook Pro and MacBook Pro with Touch Bar that has affected some owners last year.
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