Billions of iPhone users at risk of dangerous malware attack — newly-found flaw warning issued - New York Post

Breaking News: Apple Users Urged to Update Devices Immediately Due to Critical Flaw

In recent days, a team of cyber sleuths has uncovered a major flaw in the latest versions of Apple devices that could leave users' gadgets vulnerable to hacking. This critical vulnerability, dubbed "AirBorne," has raised concerns among security experts and tech enthusiasts alike.

What is AirBorne?

The AirBorne vulnerability is described as a " zero-day exploit" that allows hackers to bypass various security measures and gain unauthorized access to Apple devices running on iOS 14 or later. The flaw was discovered by researchers who were analyzing the device's Wi-Fi connectivity capabilities.

How does AirBorne work?

According to reports, AirBorne takes advantage of a weakness in the way Apple devices handle Wi-Fi network authentication. When an iPhone or iPad connects to a public Wi-Fi network, it uses a process called "EAP" (Extensible Authentication Protocol) to authenticate with the network. However, researchers found that the device's implementation of EAP was flawed, allowing hackers to intercept and manipulate the authentication process.

What can hackers do with AirBorne?

Once an attacker gains access to an Apple device using AirBorne, they could potentially:

• Steal sensitive data, such as login credentials or personal identifiable information
• Install malware or other malicious software on the device
• Use the device to launch phishing attacks or spread ransomware
• Access and control other devices connected to the same network

How widespread is the issue?

The AirBorne vulnerability affects a large number of Apple devices, including:

• iPhones (13, 12, 11, etc.)
• iPads (9th generation, 8th generation, etc.)
• MacBooks (2015 and later)
• Apple TVs

When can I expect an update?

Apple has acknowledged the AirBorne vulnerability and is working on a software patch to address the issue. According to reports, the company is expected to release the fix in the near future.

What should I do now?

To protect your device from the AirBorne vulnerability:

• Update your device immediately: As soon as Apple releases the fix, update your device to the latest version of iOS or iPadOS.
• Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication: Protect your device and online accounts with strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication whenever possible.
• Be cautious when using public Wi-Fi: Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks unless absolutely necessary, and use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) if you must connect to an unsecured network.

What can I do to stay safe?

To stay safe from cyber threats like AirBorne:

• Stay informed: Keep up with the latest news and updates on security vulnerabilities and patches.
• Use reputable antivirus software: Install a reputable antivirus program that includes features like real-time protection, regular scans, and anti-phishing capabilities.
• Back up your data regularly: Use an external hard drive or cloud storage service to back up your important files and data.

Conclusion

The AirBorne vulnerability is a critical security issue that affects many Apple devices. By taking immediate action to update your device, using strong passwords and two-factor authentication, and being cautious when using public Wi-Fi networks, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to this exploit. Stay informed, use reputable antivirus software, and back up your data regularly to ensure your digital security is top-notch.

Additional Resources

• Apple Support Page: For information on updating your device and troubleshooting common issues.
• Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA): For guidance on protecting yourself from cyber threats like AirBorne.