In recent developments, Apple has focused on reinforcing the security of its older devices by addressing critical vulnerabilities through backported patches. Such measures ensure that even users with legacy devices remain safeguarded against emerging threats. Apple’s commitment is evident in their recent endeavors, including fixes for three notable vulnerabilities that could potentially compromise user security.
Critical Exploits Addressed
Among the vulnerabilities that Apple has tackled, CVE-2025-24085 stands out. This particular flaw is a use-after-free bug in the Core Media component. Garnering a CVSS score of 7.3, it posed a significant risk by allowing a malicious app to gain elevated privileges. The severity of this vulnerability underscored the urgent need for a patch to prevent potential exploitation.
In addition to this, Apple tackled CVE-2025-24200, an authorization issue in the Accessibility component. With a CVSS score of 4.6, this vulnerability enabled attackers to disable USB Restricted Mode on a locked device. This exploit compromised one of the key security features designed to protect user data from unauthorized access. Lastly, CVE-2025-24201, an out-of-bounds write issue in the WebKit component, was addressed. This flaw, with a high CVSS score of 8.8, allowed attackers to break out of the Web Content sandbox through malicious web content. The resolution of these vulnerabilities highlights Apple’s proactive approach to device security.
System Updates and Device Coverage
Apple’s dedication to securing legacy devices is evident in the range of operating system versions receiving these updates. The patches have been implemented across several platforms, including macOS 14.7.5, macOS 13.7.5, iPadOS 17.7.6, and various versions of iOS and iPadOS 15 and 16. Specific older models benefiting from these updates include the iPhone 6s, iPhone 7, iPhone SE (1st generation), iPad Air 2, several iPad Pro models, and others. Providing these patches across various models ensures comprehensive security coverage for a wide array of users, regardless of the age of their devices.
Furthermore, newer versions across the product lineup have also been released, addressing a multitude of flaws. iOS 18.4 and iPadOS 18.4 brought remedies for 62 issues, while macOS Sequoia 15.4 resolved 131 flaws. Other products, such as tvOS 18.4, visionOS 2.4, and Safari 18.4, saw fixes for 36, 38, and 14 issues respectively. These updates underscore Apple’s holistic approach to device security, extending not only to older models but also ensuring the latest products remain impenetrable to threats.
Future Considerations and Ongoing Security
Recently, Apple has made significant strides in bolstering the security of its older devices by implementing backported patches to tackle critical vulnerabilities. This proactive approach ensures that users with legacy hardware are not left exposed to new threats. Apple’s dedication to security is clearly demonstrated in their latest actions, which include addressing three major vulnerabilities. These weaknesses, if left unpatched, could have seriously endangered user security and privacy. By rolling out these updates, Apple underscores its commitment to protecting all its customers, regardless of whether they use the latest model or an older device. It’s a clear indication that Apple values the safety of each user, recognizing that cybersecurity threats evolve rapidly and can affect any device, old or new. This diligent effort showcases Apple’s ongoing mission to maintain a secure ecosystem, ensuring that even older hardware continues to receive vital security updates to counter emerging risks. Through these actions, Apple reinforces its reputation as a technology company that prioritizes its users’ safety above all.