When an unscheduled iPhone and iPad software update is pushed out without warning, it usually means it’s related to a serious security issue. Today is no exception. Apple pushed out a warning to download the latest iOS 17.6.1 update without giving too many details apart from these key words:
“This update includes an important bug fix and addresses an issue that could prevent you from enabling or disabling Advanced Data Protection.”
You can choose to update now or tonight, but we recommend that you do so now rather than waiting. Such an update These attacks are becoming more frequent as bad actors find ways to compromise the safety, security and privacy of Apple products.
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IOS 17.6.1 Software Update (Kurt “Cyberguy” Knutson)
What’s included in the iOS 17.6.1 software update?
iOS 17.6.1, released on August 7, 2024, is primarily a fix for Apple’s Advanced Data Protection (ADP) feature. This update fixes a bug that prevented some users from enabling or disabling ADP, an optional iCloud security feature that extends end-to-end encryption to additional services such as device backup, message backup, and photos.
This issue manifested itself in two ways: Users who tried to enable ADP encountered an error in the user interface, which mirrored the exact problem; Users who tried to disable ADP saw ADP disabled in the interface, but ADP remained enabled for their iCloud data. Despite this issue, Apple has assured that the small number of users affected by this issue experienced the same, or even better, level of security than they initially thought.
What is Artificial Intelligence (AI)?
After installing iOS 17.6.1, affected users who previously attempted to disable ADP will receive a notification directing them to Settings, where they can confirm their choice to turn off the feature.
This update includes fixes for ADP as well as other important bug fixes and security improvements. This release is part of Apple’s continuing efforts to maintain the stability and security of iOS 17 as we prepare for the release of iOS 18 later this year.
How to make sure your iPhone and iPad are up to date
- Tap setting
- Tap General
- Tap Software Updates
- If an update is available, Download and install.
Steps to make sure your iPhone and iPad are up to date (Kurt “Cyberguy” Knutson)
To keep your phone up to date, turn on automatic updates:
- On the software update screen shown above, Automatic Updates line
- Turn everything on Related Services If you want to get the latest information,
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Steps to set up automatic updates (Kurt “Cyberguy” Knutson)
Note: Always back up your phone just in case. Learn more about backing up and restoring your phone here.
New cyberattack targets iPhones and Apple IDs: How to stay safe
Stay ahead of cyber threats with powerful antivirus software
Security glitches can have a huge impact on your life as your important details are easily accessible to skilled criminal hackers on unprotected devices, which is why we recommend using strong antivirus protection on all your devices including Mac, iPhone, iPad, Android and Windows.
The best way to protect yourself from malicious links that could install malware and access your personal information is to have antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection will also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe. We’ve handpicked the winners of the best antivirus protection of 2024 for Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.
Find what works best for you and your family. Teams like Apple and Microsoft fight bad actors like trying to stop a fire hose with a plastic cup. It takes time to create patches and respond to stop bad actors. Strong antivirus protection gives you another level of security that you can control instead of waiting for the world to get into trouble.
We will continue to monitor this bug and any related issues.
Apple issues spyware warning to 92 countries
Important points about the cart
Staying up to date with software updates like iOS 17.6.1 is essential to keeping your devices secure. Updating now will help protect your personal data from potential threats. Remember, using a strong antivirus software provides an extra layer of defense against cyber risks. As technology evolves, so do cybercriminals’ tactics. Be proactive and protect your digital life.
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