Apple Releases Patch for DarkSword Flaw in iOS 18 for Latest iPhone Models

Apple Releases iOS 18 Update to Protect iPhones from DarkSword Hacking Tool

In a bid to safeguard older iPhones still running iOS 18 from the DarkSword hacking tool, Apple is rolling out a software update. This update aims to prevent bad actors from exploiting vulnerabilities that could allow them to take control of an iPhone when users visit infected websites, as reported by Mactrast.

While devices like the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR received the iOS 18.7.7 patch on March 24, newer iPhone models were left without this update, with Apple urging users to upgrade to iOS 26 instead. However, due to the reluctance of many users to switch to iOS 26, Apple has now decided to extend the fix to all iOS 26-capable iPhones still on iOS 18.

It remains uncertain whether Apple will make iOS 18.7.7 available for additional iPhone models or release a newer iOS 18.7.8 patch. Nonetheless, this update will ensure that iPhone 11 through iPhone 16 users are shielded from DarkSword without the need to transition to iOS 26. Notably, iPhone 17 models and the iPhone Air, which come pre-installed with iOS 26, are excluded from this update.

This move comes in response to criticism on social media, where many accused Apple of leveraging the DarkSword risks to compel users to switch to iOS 26. Despite this, the effectiveness of the update remains to be seen, as opinions vary among users.

To install the iOS 18 update, ensure that your iPhone is fully charged and connected to Wi-Fi. Navigate to Settings > General > Software Update to check for the available iOS 18.7.7 or iOS 18.7.8 version. Users with automatic updates enabled will receive the update automatically.

Apple has also released patches to protect older iPhones from other hacking tools like Coruna. It is recommended that all users update their devices to the latest iOS version supported.

The DarkSword exploit, now available on GitHub, poses a threat to iPhones running iOS 13 or later. This toolkit, comprising HTML and JavaScript, enables even novice hackers to launch attacks on unpatched iPhones with ease.

Matthias Frielingsdorf, co-founder of mobile security startup iVerify, expressed concern over the simplicity of deploying these exploits, emphasizing the potential for widespread abuse. Various hacker groups have utilized DarkSword to compromise iPhones in multiple countries, highlighting the urgency of updating devices.