Apple releases first ‘rapid’ security vulnerability fixes for iPhones, iPads, and Macs

On Monday, Apple released the first batch of its publicly available “rapid security” patches, designed to quickly fix security vulnerabilities that are under active exploitation and pose a significant risk to its customers and users.

The Rapid Security Response updates, according to a notice, “deliver important security improvements between software updates.”

Rapid Security Responses were introduced to allow Apple customers to update their devices more quickly than a standard software update would allow. According to Apple, the feature is enabled by default, and some rapid patches, though not always, can be installed without having to reboot your device.

Customers running iOS 16.4.1, iPadOS 16.4.1, and macOS 13.3.1 will receive the rapid security update. It will add a letter to the software version once installed, such as iOS 16.4.1 (a), iPadOS 16.4.1 (a), and macOS 13.3.1 (a). Older versions of Apple’s software will not receive the rapid security fix. Apple stated that fixes will be included in future software updates.

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However, the launch on Monday did not go as planned. Some customers reported that they were unable to install the update. When tested, the updates on an iPhone, iPad, and Mac, they downloaded but did not install right away.

It’s also unclear what this security update fixes and Apple is yet to respond to a comment request.

In recent weeks, researchers have discovered new exploits developed by spyware makers QuaDream and NSO Group that are aimed at iPhone users worldwide. Both spyware developers took advantage of previously unknown vulnerabilities in Apple’s software, allowing their government clients to steal data silently from a victim’s device.

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Last month Citizen Lab reported that Lockdown Mode, a feature introduced by Apple last year to prevent similar targeted attacks, blocked at least one NSO-developed exploit that abused a vulnerability in Apple’s smart home feature, HomeKit.

Given the nature of the update, it is important to try and stay updated to know what to do and when to do it as Apple will keep working to improve on any discrepancy in the software update.