Apple recently released significant security updates for iOS and macOS. I would strongly encourage you to install these as they close vulnerabilities that Apple's sources say are actually being actively exploited. But more on that below.
Chapter in this post:
My personal experience
For your peace of mind, I can tell you that I have both updates on both my iPhone 14 Pro Max and MacBook Pro Max M1 I installed it and everything went smoothly.
However, and I can't stress this enough, it's always a good idea to back up your data before making any such updates. Time Machine, Backblaze or Carbon Copy Cloner are the methods of choice for the Mac and I would recommend a local backup via the Finder on the Mac or an iCloud backup for the iPhone and iPad.
Security update iOS 16.6.1
The update iOS 16.6.1 is a security update from Apple released on September 7, 2023. It fixes two actively exploited vulnerabilities. These reside in the ImageIO framework and in the wallet app.
These vulnerabilities could potentially allow attackers to execute arbitrary code on your device. The update affects both iPhones and iPads. At the same time, Apple also released watchOS 9.6.2 to fix the wallet bug.
My urgent advice to you: update your device as soon as possible. And for those with older devices, chances are you'll get an updated version of iOS 15.
Security update macOS Ventura 13.5.2
On September 7th, Apple also did macOS is coming 13.5.2 released. This update also resolves a security vulnerability that could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code.
The issue in question has been reported in the Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) database under number CVE-2023-41064 listed. Apple has indicated that this vulnerability may have been actively exploited.
Technically, the update addresses a buffer overflow issue through improved memory handling. This update came just three weeks after the release of Ventura 13.5.1.
And a little preview: The next big update for Macs, namely macOS Sonoma, is expected to be released in October.
Problems with one of the updates?
Do you have problems with one of the updates in the form that your device behaves strangely afterwards? Then feel free to leave a comment here, because these tips will help other users to assess whether an error on an iPhone, iPad or Mac is related to one of the updates.
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Jens has been running the blog since 2012. He acts as Sir Apfelot for his readers and helps them with technical problems. In his spare time he rides electric unicycles, takes photos (preferably with the iPhone, of course), climbs around in the Hessian mountains or hikes with the family. His articles deal with Apple products, news from the world of drones or solutions to current bugs.
I can't just update to Mac OS 13.5.2. I have installed 11.6.8 and my most important programs run stable with it. This would not automatically be the case with Mac OS 13, I know that from experience with previous updates.
Does this mean Big Sure is now a security risk?
Hello Robert! I expect that Apple will also bring security updates for the older systems. I hope Big Sur is still there. But you'll notice that when you get an update suggested soon. 😊