On Monday, September 13th, 2021, Apple released iOS and iPadOS 14.8, WatchOS 7.6.2, and MacOS Big Sur 11.6. Updates were released for legacy software versions of MacOS as well. These updates address a vulnerability within Apple’s operating systems that would allow an invasive spyware that was developed by NSO Group to remotely infect devices, all without device users even knowing. A vast majority of users devices are not infected with the spyware as it was used to target only specific individuals.
We recommend that users update their devices as soon as possible.
How to update
iOS and iPadOS
Prior to updating, ensure that your device is plugged in and connected to a reliable WiFi network (Settings → WiFi). Do not unplug it during the update.
Open ‘Settings’.
Select the ‘General’ tab.
Select the ’Software Update’ tab.
If you’re device shows that it’s on iOS or iPadOS 14.8 and says that ‘iOS is up to date’ or ’iPadOS is up to date’, you are good to go. If your device is not already up to date, you should see the new update available. Tap on the ‘Download and Install’ button toward the bottom of the screen. Your device will prompt you to accept the terms and conditions and may ask you to type in your passcode if you have one set up. After this the update will download.
Once the update downloads, it should automatically install. If it does not, follow steps 1 though 3 and tap the ‘Install’ button toward the bottom of the screen.
Once the update completes, you’ll be able to continue using your device as normal.
WatchOS
Prior to updating, ensure that your watch is on its charger, connected to a reliable WiFi network, and in close proximity to the iPhone it’s paired with. Do not remove it from the charger during the update.
Open the ‘Watch” app on the iPhone the watch is paired with.
Select the ’General’ tab.
Select the ‘Software Update’ tab.
If you’re iPhone shows that the watch is on WatchOS 7.6.2 and says that ‘WatchOS is up to date’, you are good to go. If your watch is not already up to date, you should see the new update available. Tap on the ‘Download and Install’ button toward the bottom of the screen. Your iPhone will prompt you to accept the terms and conditions and may ask you to type in your passcode if you have one set up. After this the update will download.
Once the update downloads, it should automatically install. If it does not, follow steps 1 though 3 and tap the ‘Install’ button toward the bottom of the screen.
Once the update completes, you’ll be able to continue using your Watch as normal.
MacOS
Prior to updating, ensure that your device is plugged in and connected to a reliable WiFi network (System Preferences → Network → WiFi) or connected via ethernet. Do not unplug it during the update.
Open ‘System Preferences‘.
Select the ‘Software Update’ tab.
If your Mac shows ‘Your Mac is up to date’, you are good to go. If your Mac is not already up to date, you should see a new update available. Click the ‘Update Now’ toward the upper right side of the window. This will download the update.
Once the update is downloaded, it should automatically install. If it does not, follow steps 1 and 2 and select ‘Update Now’. Your Mac will prompt you to restart it and it will then proceed to install the update.
Once the update completes, you’ll be able to continue using your Mac as normal.
Conclusion
Although it can be unsettling when things like this happen, rest assured that Apple takes privacy and security very seriously.
If you need any help with this, we would be happy to help you in store. Feel free to check out our White Glove services as well, which will help you with: Setup, Support, Maintenance, and Repair.
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Posted on 9/17/2021, written by Jayden.
