Apple delivered its first “rapid security” updates on Monday to correct security flaws that are actively exploited or represent a serious risk to customers.
Rapid Security Response upgrades “deliver important security improvements between software updates,” a notification states.
Apple implemented Rapid Security Responses to update devices faster than usual. In addition, some rapid patches can be installed without rebooting, according to Apple.
iOS 16.4.1, iPadOS 16.4.1, and macOS 13.3.1 users receive the quick security update. After installation, iOS 16.4.1 (a), iPadOS 16.4.1 (a), and macOS 13.3.1 (a) will appear. Apple’s older software won’t get the quick security update. Apple promised updates with fixes.
Monday’s launch was rocky. Some customers couldn’t update. TechCrunch’s iPhone, iPad, and Mac updates were downloaded but didn’t install.
Apple did not remark on what this security update solves either.
Researchers have recently found fresh QuaDream and NSO Group vulnerabilities affecting iPhone users worldwide. Both spyware vendors used Apple’s software flaws to grab data from victims’ devices.
Last month, Citizen Lab reported that Lockdown Mode, a feature Apple introduced last year to prevent targeted attacks, stopped at least one NSO-developed exploit that exploited a HomeKit vulnerability.
Given this latest security patch’s apparent severity, we’ll keep updating, as should you.
