iPhone users are being strongly advised to keep their devices with the latest updates following Apple’s recent software release. While many believe their iPhones are virtually impervious to hacks and security breaches, this assumption isn’t always true.
The reason security vulnerabilities affecting iPhones aren’t frequently publicised is due to Apple’s policy, which states it doesn’t “disclose, discuss, or confirm security issues” until a thorough investigation has been completed and protective patches are ready for deployment. Apple’s most recent iOS 26.2 update, for instance, has identified and addressed 27 security concerns affecting iPhones and other Apple devices.
Among the vulnerabilities tackled in this latest update was a critical exploit that allegedly enabled ‘extremely sophisticated attacks’ targeting ‘specific targeted individuals’ who had failed to upgrade their iPhones to the most current iOS software, iOS 26.
Addressing the WebKit vulnerability on its security platform, Apple explained that the exploit involved “processing maliciously crafted web content may lead to arbitrary code execution” on affected devices. The company further stated: “Apple is aware of a report that this issue may have been exploited in an extremely sophisticated attack against specific targeted individuals on versions of iOS before iOS 26.”
How to keep your iPhone protected
If you’re worried about the security of your iPhone, the first step is to ensure that your device’s software is up-to-date with the latest version of iOS, currently iOS 26.2. Apple’s guidance states: “Keeping your software up to date is one of the most important things you can do to maintain your Apple product’s security.”
You can check to see if your iPhone is updated with the following steps:
Keep in mind that iOS 26.2 is only available on the following devices:
- iPhone SE (2nd generation)
- iPhone SE (3rd generation)
- iPhone 11 (including Pro and Pro Max)
- iPhone 12 (including Mini, Pro, and Pro Max)
- iPhone 13 (including Pro and Pro Max)
- iPhone 14 (including Pro and Pro Max)
- iPhone 15 (including Pro and Pro Max)
- iPhone 16 (including Pro and Pro Max)
- iPhone 17 (including Pro and Pro Max)
- iPhone Air
Guidance from Apple notes that if you plan on updating your iPhone, you should first back up your device using either iCloud or your computer. A full breakdown of Apple’s latest security updates in iOS 26.2 can be found on its website here.