For several reasons you might delay and update your iPhone to the latest iOS. Perhaps you’re running low on storage, or you’re concerned that a new operating system could slow down an older model.
However, it’s important not to hesitate with the iOS 18.2 update as it addresses a critical security vulnerability in the Passwords app.
Apple’s iOS 18.2 Update Enhances Security to Shield Your Phone from Vulnerabilities
In iOS 18, Apple launched the standalone Passwords app to manage login data.
However, when a security researcher identified a vulnerability in how the app communicated with websites during data organization, Apple promptly addressed the issue.
A few months following its discovery, Apple has now released a patch as part of iOS 18.2.
Nonetheless, Apple’s role is limited—they’ve provided the update, but it’s your responsibility to install it on your device.
To get the latest iOS update for your iPhone or iPad, go to Settings > General > Software Update. You should find a description of version 18.2 there—tap Update Now to proceed with installation.
Why Is This Such a Big Deal?
According to Mysk on X, the Passwords app was “using unencrypted HTTP to download icons for password entries,” which indicates that its internet communications were insecure.
This means that whenever the app connected to a website to retrieve an icon for a password entry, there was potential for malicious networks to intercept and return harmful files instead.
Receiving an incorrect icon for platforms like YouTube or Instagram might appear more irritating than harmful, but these files could actually harbor malware, delivering a “malicious payload” directly to your phone.
Even if you follow all the best practices for setting up a password manager, vulnerabilities can still arise. This might tempt you to abandon using one altogether.
Concluion
However, there’s an easy solution with the iOS update that likely won’t necessitate changing your passwords.
Additionally, this update brings exciting advancements in Apple Intelligence, such as Image Playground and new ChatGPT integration with Siri.
