Devices often require consistent software updates. Such devices, especially mobile phones, work faster, better, and smarter when they’re updated with the latest software. But this isn’t all. These updates can offer a wide variety of new features and enhancements to settings, camera lenses, and even applications. Recently, tech giant Apple came out with the latest software for all Apple devices including MacBooks, iPhones, and iPads. However, this update is different because it’s considered urgent. In fact, all Apple users have been urged to install the new software on their devices as soon as possible. Here’s why this is happening.
There’s a Rise in New Malware Attacks
Apple’s newly launched software updates can help address security issues that could attack Apple devices. The new updates, macOS 11.6 and iOS 14.8 were released in response to a ‘bug’ that was unearthed by the University of Toronto’s Citizen Lab. The results revealed that this new spyware that was discovered could potentially harm a lot of Apple users’ data and devices. Pegasus, the name of this spyware, is so advanced that it enters devices without the Apple user suspecting anything.
They won’t notice suspicious emails, or slowed down browsing. The malware just enters quietly and attacks data. Research has revealed that this spyware can even gain access to the camera and microphone. In fact, it can even assess messages on messaging applications like WhatsApp and Signal.
Therefore, it is highly recommended by experts to install the new software updates immediately to remedy the risks posed by the new spyware. These updates include WatchOS 7.6.2, macOS 11.6, and iOS 14.8. To activate these updates, you need to go to your smart device’s settings. From there, click the Software Update option and then hit Download.
Many Devices Have Already Been Affected
This is terrifying news for Apple users. But the most dominant question after this is ‘how many devices have been infected?’ Apple has stated that it is still unsure about the exact number of users infected by this new spyware. However, it has also made a fascinating revelation. A large number of devices may have already been affected by the malware. But because users aren’t aware that they’ve been infected wing to the advanced malware strategies, they can’t know if they’re safe or not. Because the risk is so high, these recent software updates were released on an urgent basis.
The Pegasus software has been garnered by the NSO group; an Israel-based technology company. This spyware allows hackers and similar cybercriminals to hack into Apple devices and control them. University of Toronto’s Citizen Lab also revealed that whoever can hacks into Apple devices through this software can do anything with said devices.
The Spyware Can Have Adverse Effects on Your Device
New research has revealed that this new spyware can greatly alter your Apple devices. And not in a good way. But this isn’t surprising considering that the spyware is so advanced and widespread. It can hack into every application that is installed on your phone or Macbook. People with Android phones and cable TVs such as Cox Cable and internet can finally be content with their choices. Pegasus can even get into the camera and operate it on its own. It can take over passwords and steal precious data.
This means that your private information can be with cyber criminalsminals directly. This involves all personal and sensitive data that could also be precious and important to you. What’s worse, iMessage also contains a bug in itself that can exploit your privacy. In fact, this makes it incredibly easy for any hacker to gain access to your data.
Of course, your first reaction will be to check if your device is safe. But how will you know this?
Can You Tell If Your Device Is Affected by Spyware?
If what the researchers say is true, and you can’t tell if your device has been infected, how will you know if it has? Firstly, it’s important to reiterate that spyware is made up of very advanced technology. It’s hardly detectable. This means that it is designed in a way to show little to no signs of malware or suspicious activity. This makes it extremely hard to detect. Especially if you’re trying to detect it yourself. It’s harder because the iPhone doesn’t allow any user-friendly anti-virus software. If you’re a Mac, there’s still some hope. But for this, you’ll need the help of an expert.
So, before you worry about anything else, the important thing is to update your devices as soon as you can. Apple users can’t afford to delay these updates even by minutes. If they do, they could be potential victims of spyware and malware attacks that could alter their devices completely.
Author Bio:
This is Aryan, I am a professional SEO Expert & Write for us technology blog and submit a guest post on different platforms- Technoohub provides a good opportunity for content writers to submit guest posts on our website. We frequently highlight and tend to showcase guests.
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