Apple has rolled out its iOS 18.2, iPadOS 18.2 and macOS 15.2 updates with a whole set of new features for its Apple AI Intelligence, along with several critical security patches across a wide range of devices. This new update brings optimizations, AI, and enhancements to privacy and security resolving issues that could have allowed malicious apps or attackers to gain unauthorized access to sensitive user data, crash apps, or even execute arbitrary code.
iOS, iPad OS Updates
The new iOS 18.2 and iPadOS 18.2 updates are available for a wide range of Apple devices, including:
- All iPhones XS and later
- iPad Pro (all models) and iPad Air (3rd generation and later)
- iPad (7th gen and later) and iPad mini (5th gen and later)
Alongside their new AI Intellegence features including Image Playground for image creations, Genmoji to create original emojis, Writing Tools enhancements, ChatGPT integration, and visual intelligence, the update includes patches for vulnerabilities in several key areas. These include:
- AppleMobileFileIntegrity: Added enhanced checks to prevent unauthorized access to personal information by malicious apps
- Kernel Security: A range of kernel vulnerabilities were fixed, including one that could let an attacker create read-only memory mappings and another that could allow apps to leak sensitive kernel state, through improved validation and locking mechanisms.
- WebKit: Multiple fixes were made to WebKit, the underlying engine for Safari addressing issues that could allow malicious web content to crash the browser or corrupt memory
- libxpc & libexpat: These vulnerabilities, found in important system libraries, were addressed to prevent apps from breaking out of their sandbox or executing arbitrary code remotely
- Safari: Improved the routing of Safari-originated requests with Private Relay to mitigate IP risk when adding websites to reading list
With vulnerabilities that could expose personal data or allow attackers to execute arbitrary code, this update is crucial for maintaining the security and integrity of your device. Apple strongly encourages all users to update their devices to iOS 18.2 and iPadOS 18.2 as soon as possible to benefit from these important fixes.
To install the update, navigate to the Settings App >> General >> Software Update on your device. For more information on these security updates, visit Apple’s official security page.
macOS Updates
Released alongside iOS 18.2, macOS Sequoia 15.2 (macOS 15.2) also brings crucial security updates and system improvements. This update focuses on tightening security, addressing vulnerabilities that could potentially allow attackers to gain access to sensitive data or execute harmful actions on your Mac. Key fixes include:.
- AppleSoftwareRestore: Added enhanced checks to prevent unauthorized access to data by malicious apps
- AppleGraphicsControl: Improves memory handling to prevent unexpected system crashes from maliciously crafted videos
- DiskArbitration: Improved authorization and state management a different user access to an encrypted volume
- SharedFileList: Better file handling and restricted access to sensitive system resources to prevent malicious apps from overwriting files or accessing protected data.
The macOS Sequoia 15.2 update contains essential security patches, bug fixes, and system optimizations. These updates are vital to safeguarding your Mac against potential threats.
To update your Mac, go to System Preferences >> Software Update and install the latest version. Learn more about macOS’ latest update release notes here.
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