Apple officially confirms the exploitation of an iPhone bug - here is what to do

Apple has always been very careful when it comes to its iOS system for the iPhone. However, the system is still vulnerable to some issues. Recently, the company rolled out software updates for the iPhone and iPad. Apple insists that it is necessary for users to download and install the update immediately. This is because it contains a fix for an issue that may have been exploited repeatedly. On the surface, the iOS 16.3.1 and iPadOS 16.3.1 upgrades don't appear to add any new features, but they do include fixes for iCloud settings and Siri issues, improvements, and security patches. Most significantly, iOS 16.3.1 and iPadOS 16.3.1 patch a WebKit vulnerability that cybercriminals may have exploited. WebKit is a browser engine utilized by Safari, Mail, the App Store, and other apps. A single flaw in it can compromise all programs that rely on it.

A vulnerability in the wild is a risk that is spreading across real-world gadgets and may endanger ordinary people. The WebKit flaw may allow bad actors to remotely execute any command on afflicted iPhones and iPads. It must be patched as soon as possible because hackers are actively exploiting it.

The patches also aim to address a Kernel flaw that might allow programs to execute instructions with kernel privileges. This opens the door for hackers to take control of the entire system. Fortunately, no one appears to have exploited this weakness. According to TechCrunch, it's exceedingly unlikely that a hacker will use the flaws to target an average iPhone user. However, it s still important for users to update their phones as soon as possible to reduce the risk.

It's also worth noting that iOS 16.3.1 appears to have broken Photos. Several users have reported that the update is crashing the app. So you'll have to choose between a flawlessly functioning Google Photos app and a secure iPhone and iPad.