Highlights
- CERT-In Alert: Critical iOS and iPadOS flaws threaten iPhone XS and later models.
- Darwin Flaw: Hackers could steal data or crash devices via Apple’s internal system.
- Act Fast: Update to iOS 18.4.1 or iPadOS 18.4.1 to stay safe.
The Indian government has issued an urgent warning for iPhone and iPad users. The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) has flagged high-severity vulnerabilities in iOS and iPadOS that could let hackers steal your photos, messages, or even disable your device. Even iOS 18 devices are at risk. Here’s how to protect yourself in 2025.
What’s the Threat?
CERT-In’s advisory (CIVN-2025-0071) reveals flaws in Apple’s Darwin notification system, allowing attackers to:
- Access sensitive data like contacts and banking info.
- Run malicious code to control your device.
- Crash your iPhone or iPad, requiring a manual restore.
Affected Devices: iPhone XS and later, iPad 6th gen and above, iPad Pro (2nd gen+), iPad Air (3rd gen+), and iPad mini (5th gen+), running iOS/iPadOS versions older than 18.4.1 or 17.7.5. CERT-In warns that some flaws, like CVE-2025-31200, are actively exploited.
How to Stay Safe
Protect your device with these three key steps:
- Update Immediately
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
- Install iOS 18.4.1 or iPadOS 18.4.1 (or 17.7.5 for older iPads).
- Enable Automatic Updates to avoid future risks.
- Stick to Trusted Apps
- Download apps only from the Apple App Store to avoid malware.
- Beware of phishing links urging you to install software.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
- Go to Settings > [Your Name] > Sign-In & Security > Two-Factor Authentication.
- Secure your Apple ID to protect iCloud data.
Also read: Apple iPhone 17 Pro & Pro Max: Price, Design, Camera, Specs, and 2025 Leaks
Why It Matters
X posts show growing panic among Apple users, with many rushing to update their devices. The Darwin flaw’s severity, combined with active exploits, makes this a critical issue. Apple has patched the vulnerabilities in iOS 18.4.1, but unupdated devices remain vulnerable.
Act Now
Don’t risk a data breach. Update your iPhone or iPad to iOS 18.4.1 or iPadOS 18.4.1 today. For more details, check Apple’s security updates page.
