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Apple Is Urging iPhone And iPad Customers To Download New Update

Apple Is Urging iPhone And iPad Customers To Download New Update

The tech giant says flaws 'may have been actively exploited'

Dominic Smithers

Dominic Smithers

Apple has urged iPhone and iPad customers to download the latest system update now.

The tech giant revealed that its security systems 'may have been actively exploited' and that the new iOS 14.4 software will help protect users from attack.

In a post to its support page, Apple said the company had identified three security flaws, but that it could 'not disclose, discuss, or confirm security issues until an investigation has occurred and patches or releases are available'.

According to the company, two of the three flaws identified were found in WebKit, an open-source browser engine that is used by Safari. It's understood the bugs found allow hackers to 'cause arbitrary code execution'.

A third was found in Kernel, which is part of Apple's operating software framework.

It's feared hackers may have breached Apple's security.
PA

All three were reported to Apple by an 'anonymous researcher', and affect customers using iPhone 6s models and later, as well as iPad Air 2 or later.

Wired reports that it's unlikely iPhone users have been hacked, but recommended installing the security update as soon as possible.

This comes after Apple issued a warning that its iPhones could interfere with medical devices such as pacemakers and should be kept at least six-inches away from such devices.

The tech-giant explained in a new post that all its phones contain magnets as well as other components that emit electromagnetic fields.

And its these magnets and electromagnetic fields that Apple say 'might interfere' with medical devices such as implanted defibrillators and pacemakers.

All four models of the iPhone 12 contain more magnets than other handsets, because they are compatible with MagSafe accessories, but Apple says there is no reason to suggest these models 'pose a greater risk' to interfere with medical devices.

On the subject of MagSafe accessories, such as wireless charging docks, Apple also recommends that users with medical devices keep a similar 'safe distance'.

Apple has urged users to update their phones and tablets.
PA

Apple wrote: "Medical devices such as implanted pacemakers and defibrillators might contain sensors that respond to magnets and radios when in close contact.

"To avoid any potential interactions with these devices, keep your iPhone and MagSafe accessories a safe distance away from your device (more than 6 inches / 15 cm apart or more than 12 inches / 30 cm apart if wirelessly charging).

"But consult with your physician and your device manufacturer for specific guidelines."

The company also recommends speaking to your doctor and the manufacturer of the medical device to get information on what is and isn't safe.

The statement adds: "Manufacturers often provide recommendations on the safe use of their devices around wireless or magnetic products to prevent possible interference.

"If you suspect iPhone or any MagSafe accessories are interfering with your medical device, stop using your iPhone or MagSafe accessories."

Featured Image Credit: PA

Topics: World News, phone, Apple, iPhone