Featured Image Credit: John Keeble / Contributor / dragana991 / Getty
Apple has just dropped its latest software update, urging iPhone and iPad users to download it as soon as possible to fix security issues.
The tech giant released iOS 17.3 to tackle 15 security issues involving Mail Search, Safari, and WebKit that all may have exposed sensitive data.
While Apple encourages users to always have the latest iOS update for maximum security protection and bug fixes, iOS 17.3 has been reported by some as 'one of Apple's best features in years.'
Users can update their iPhone and iPad by going to Settings, then General, and then choosing Software Update, where the new iOS 17.3 download should be available.
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Apple announced in their latest update that the company ‘doesn’t disclose, discuss, or confirm security issues until an investigation has occurred and patches or releases are available.’
iOS 17.3 stands out with its newly introduced Stolen Device Protection, designed to prevent cybercriminals from locking iPhone users out of their accounts if their iPhone gets stolen.
If someone steals your iPhone and unfortunately knows your passcode, it can be very easy to gain access the phone and lock you out, given the reported increase in thieves spying on victims' phones, according to The Wall Street Journal.
Thankfully now, Apple will require users to unlock the phone with Face ID if the iPhone detects an unknown location, and an extra one hour security delay will also activate.
In a statement regarding the iOS 17.3 beta launch, Apple said: 'In the rare cases where a thief can observe the user entering the passcode and then steal the device, stolen device protection adds a sophisticated new layer of protection.'
Users can activate Stolen Device Protection by going into Settings, then Face ID and into Passwords.
Alongside this, WebKit - the browser engine that powers Safari - was found to contain its own security flaws.
A number of issues in the browser engine have reportedly led to arbitrary code when processing web content. Basically, this means WebKit could allow unauthorised code to run.
In fact, two cybersecurity experts found an issue with Time Zone whereby the phone's number log system could be accessed.
'A maliciously crafted web page may be able to fingerprint the user,’ Apple shared in the announcement regarding WebKit.
The security fixes apply to both iPhone and iPad, which faced similar vulnerabilities potentially exposing users' data to cyber threats.
Besides tightening down on security, the update also includes AirPlay for hotel TVs where users can easily stream content to the TV in their room.
The new feature of collaborative Music playlists allows users join friends and customise their own playlists - similar to Spotify.
Finally, Apple have optimised the crash detection systems for both the iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 models.
