Is your iPhone at risk? It might just be if you haven't updated it recently. Apple is receiving a lot of criticism for its lack of communication after a recently security updated for its OS X Mavericks fixed a major bug. Why? Apple has known about this particular security bug, which can allow hackers to intercept data, since early January, according to CruxialCIO.
On Friday, Apple released the new update. The iOSs affected by this particular bug are the iOS6.x before 6.1.6 and 7.x before 7.0.6, Apple TV 6.x before 6.0.2, and Apple OS X 10.9.x before 10.9.2, according to MarketWatch. The update itself shouldn't take long to install, and if your iOS is affected, be sure to download the latest version and upgrade your iOS. It's especially important to note that those who haven't updated from iiOS 6 to iOS 7 should do so immediately since the security fix won't work on those with iOS 6, according to WNKU.
The security flaw itself can affect any users using a Wi-Fi in a public space, such as a coffee shop or an airport. Potential hackers could intercept communications on Apple devices on the same network, according to WNKU.
So why didn't Apple tell consumers about the bug when they first discovered it? That's a good question.
In a statement about the new update, Apple said "For the protection of our customers, Apple does not disclose, discuss, or confirm security issues until a full investigation has occurred and any necessary patches ore releases are available."
Currently, all you can do is update your iPhone. Until you do, though, avoid connecting to Wi-Fi in public locations.
