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Time to update: update notification on an iPad
Photo: Till Simon Nagel / dpa-tmn
Apple has plugged a critical security hole in its iOS and iPadOS operating systems and recommends installing the relevant updates immediately.
Users of newer iPhones and iPads should install the new software version 14.4.2.
IOS 12.5.2 is now available for download for older iPhones and iPads.
In addition, watchOS 7.3.3 was released for the Apple Watch.
The updates close a security hole that Google's Threat Analysis Group (TAG) discovered in Apple's WebKit browser engine.
That alone is a reason to install the updates as soon as possible, because TAG primarily analyzes state-run cyberattacks.
In addition, Apple warns that the vulnerability may already have been actively exploited.
The company says little specifically that the vulnerability makes it possible to execute malicious code on the victims' devices via manipulated Internet content - mostly websites.
If you still have iOS version 13 running on your iPhone, you should now switch to the new version 14 at the latest.
The current update is the second security patch for iOS within a very short time.
A security problem in WebKit was also fixed in early March.
The next big update is already in the works
According to the description, the security updates do not provide any new functions.
They will only be available with the next major version jump of iOS and iPadOS.
With iOS 14.5 and iPad OS14.5, among other things, there should be a way to unlock iPads and iPhones with a connected Apple Watch.
Current mask-wearing requirements make this an attractive option for devices with Face Unlock.
Another innovation will be more transparency for apps.
In the future, developers will not only have to disclose what data they collect.
You then have to ask users for permission for ad tracking as well.
If you have not activated the automatic installation of updates for your Apple device, you will find this option in the settings under
General / Software
update
.
mak / dpa
