Still running iOS 18? Install this critical update ASAP

2026-04-01 · Source: News and Advice on the World's Latest Innovations | ZDNET · Field: Technology & Digital — Cybersecurity & Data Privacy, Internet of Things (IoT) & Connected Devices · Depth: Novice, quick

Summary

Apple has released a critical security patch for iPhones and iPads still running iOS 18 and iPadOS 18, specifically versions 18.7.7, to protect against the dangerous DarkSword spyware exploit. Active since November 2025 and documented by Google, iVerify, and Lookout, DarkSword is a highly reliable spyware that can infect devices through malicious websites, allowing attackers to steal personal data and control the device without leaving traces. This patch marks a significant policy shift for Apple, which typically only provides security updates for the latest iOS version, due to DarkSword's severity and the large number of users (50-66%) still on older operating systems. Users are urged to install the iOS 18.7.7 or iPadOS 18.7.7 update immediately via Settings > General > Software Update, and consider upgrading to iOS 26 for continuous, comprehensive protection. The DarkSword exploit's source code has been leaked and published on GitHub, making it easily adaptable by multiple threat actors globally.

Key takeaway

A critical security patch (iOS 18.7.7 / iPadOS 18.7.7) has been released for iPhones and iPads still on iOS 18 to counter the dangerous "DarkSword" spyware exploit. This exploit, active since November 2025 with leaked source code, allows attackers to remotely control devices, steal data, and erase all traces. Users must install this update immediately via Settings > Software Update and are strongly advised to upgrade to iOS 26 for comprehensive, ongoing protection.

Topics

• DarkSword Exploit
• iOS 18 Security Patch
• Spyware Threat
• Apple Security Policy
• iPhone Updates

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by News and Advice on the World's Latest Innovations | ZDNET.