Apple closes zero-day security gap

Apple closes zero-day security gap

San Francisco, September 9th 2023

Apple has released an emergency software update for iPhones and iPads to fix a zero-day security flaw that could allow hackers to take over the devices‘ functions. Apple released iOS 16.6.1 in response to the security flaw discovered by spyware research group Citizen Lab.
More:
• Citizen Lab discovered the previously unknown vulnerability when it installed Pegasus spyware on the Apple device of an unnamed Washington, D.C. employee. local civil society organization.
• Pegasus allowed users to send iMessage attachments containing hidden code to victims, allowing the spyware to take over the device’s functions „without any interaction from the victim.“

• Citizen Lab advises all Apple users to update their devices and recommends Apple’s „lockdown mode“ for those at higher risk of cyberattacks.

• Pegasus spyware, developed by Israel’s NSO Group, is used by foreign governments to spy on activists, dissidents and journalists.
• In 2021, the US government blacklisted NSO for spyware and alleged surveillance.
• The update also fixes an issue with Apple Wallet where users save card information.

https://support.apple.com/de-de/HT201222