It’s Sat, Aug 20, 2022, and it’s time to update your devices.
This week (third week of Aug 2022) Apple has issued a critical update for most of its’ operating system softwares. This includes iPhones, iPads, and Mac computers. An exploit was discovered in the system software connected to the Safari web browser, the default browser on all of Apples’ devices. The exploit could enable a hacker to take control of an affected device. Apple believes the exploit has already been actively used and so has issued these critical updates to address the vulnerability.
The update for both iPhone and iPad will bring the system software up to version 15.6.1. For Mac computers, the update brings the system software up to 12.5.1 (Monterey). For older Macs that can’t update to Monterey, there is a software patch exclusively for Safari on the Big Sur and Catalina operating systems.
Apple recommends this update for all devices capable of updating to the current software. It’s not clear if older devices that operate below iOS 15 or Macs that operate below Catalina (Mojave, High Sierra) are affected by the exploit, but it would be a good idea to run whatever updates are available to your device.
To check for updates on your mobile devices (iPhones and iPads), open Settings > General > Software Update. If an update is available, you’ll see a button that says ‘Download and Install’, or perhaps just the word ‘Install.’ Tap that button and your device will begin the update process, which can take some time depending on the speed of your internet connection.
To check for updates on your Mac computer, open System Preferences > Software Update. If an update is available, you’ll see a button that says ‘Update Now.’ Give that button a click and your Mac will begin the update process, which can also take a little time.
A few tips for updating (on any occasion);
- Keep your device plugged in and charging during an update so it doesn’t run out of juice in the middle of an important update. Some devices won’t even allow you to run updates until the battery is charged enough.
- Less critical, but it’s never a bad idea to run a backup just before an update, on the slim chance that something goes wrong.
- Be ready with passwords – Your device may ask for your mobile device unlock passcode, your Apple ID password, or your Mac administrator password. Have these all ready just in case.
- If you don’t currently use an unlock passcode on your iPhone/iPad, your device may prompt you to create one after an update. If you don’t want to create a passcode, when you reach the screen that prompts to create one, tap Passcode Options > Don’t Use Passcode.