According to TechCrunch, Apple has released iOS 18.7 and iPadOS 18.7 to allow more devices to "receive important security protections from web attacks called DarkSword".
DarkSword is a set of hacking tools that can be used to hack into Apple devices running iOS 18.4 to 18.7 just by having users access a website containing malware, such as legitimate websites that have been attacked. This software steals user device data, including messages, browsing history, location data and cryptocurrencies, and then uploads data to the server operated by hackers.
These tools have been detected in a number of attacks targeting users in China, Malaysia, Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Ukraine. But now that these tools have been published online, security researchers warn that anyone can use these hacking tools to target people who are using older versions of Apple's mobile software.
Apple said users are using the company's latest software, iOS 26, which has been protected for weeks. The company has also released a new update for iOS 18 users with iPhones and iPads that cannot run iOS 26 software.
But with the latest update, Apple has provided DarkSword patches to millions of users whose devices have not been patched, those who are likely to update to iOS 26 but have chosen not to do so. Some users have chosen not to update to avoid the new "loose glass" interface of the software, which has received many complaints from users.
Apple customers who have turned on automatic software updates will receive new software. Apple said their optional security protection feature, Lockdown Mode, also prevents DarkSword attacks.
