Update, Jan. 28, 2025: This story, first published on Jan. 27, now includes more information about the fixes in iOS 18.3 and expert opinions on the update.
Apple has released iOS 18.3 and is urging iPhone users to update now. The update fixes 29 security issues, one of which has already been used in attacks.
Apple hasn’t shared many details about the problems fixed in iOS 18.3 to give users more time to update before attackers can take advantage of the information.
One of the fixed issues is a vulnerability in CoreMedia, listed as CVE-2025-24085, which could allow a harmful app to gain higher privileges.
Apple has received reports that this issue may have been actively exploited in iOS versions earlier than iOS 17.2, according to their support page.
iOS 18.3 has been released by Apple! pic.twitter.com/YuK5r84GZp
— Brandon Butch (@BrandonButch) January 27, 2025
What’s Fixed in iOS 18.3
iOS 18.3 fixes two problems in the core part of the iOS system, known as the Kernel. The first issue (CVE-2025-24107) could allow a harmful app to get full control of the system. The second problem could let an app run dangerous code with special system privileges.
The update also fixes issues in WebKit, the engine behind the Safari browser. One bug in WebKit’s Web Inspector could let a hacker trick an app into running commands on the system.
There is a problem in AirPlay, known as CVE-2025-24137, that could let a hacker remotely crash an app or run malicious code.
Another issue in Passkeys could let an attacker use an app to access Bluetooth without permission.
Apple Issues Updates For Macs Alongside iOS 18.3
Apple has released updates for Macs, alongside iOS 18.3. These updates include iPadOS 18.3, iPadOS 17.7.4, macOS Sequoia 15.3, macOS Sonoma 14.7.3, macOS Ventura 13.7.3, watchOS 11.3, tvOS 18.3, visionOS 2.3 for Apple Vision Pro, and Safari 18.3. These updates fix many of the same issues, including a flaw that has already been exploited.
Why You Should Update to iOS 18.3 Now
Apple recently released iOS 18.3 along with iPadOS 17.7.4, but there is no iOS 17.7.4 update yet. This might be because iOS 17 is not affected by the changes, or because Apple has stopped offering updates for newer devices, or we just don’t know yet.
For now, since there are no updates for iOS 17, it’s safer to update to iOS 18.
The iOS 18.3 update fixes several important problems in areas like Accessibility, AirPlay, CoreMedia, Kernel, Passkeys, Safari, and Webkit, according to Michael Covington, VP of strategy at the security company Jamf.
Looking closely at the update notes, we see it fixes issues that could allow hackers to bypass locked apps, corrupt memory on local networks, or cause service disruptions. Other fixes also help make web browsing more secure.
Covington recommends that users and organizations who use iPhones “install security updates as soon as they can.”
He says iOS 18.3 “is no different.” “Keeping your device updated with the latest patches is one of the best ways to protect it from attackers.”
When you update to iOS 18.3, remember that Apple has automatically turned on AI for iPhone 15 and newer models, so you can check your settings and turn it off if you prefer.
iOS 18.3 is available for the iPhone XS and newer, iPad Pro 13-inch, iPad Pro 12.9-inch 3rd generation and newer, iPad Pro 11-inch 1st generation and newer, iPad Air 3rd generation and newer, iPad 7th generation and newer, and iPad mini 5th generation and newer.
In my opinion, upgrading to iOS 18.3 is a no-brainer. The update fixes a problem that has been used in real-life attacks, so it’s really important to update as soon as you can to keep your iPhone safe.
So, what are you waiting for? Go to Settings > Software Update and download iOS 18.3 now.
Published: 28th January 2025
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