Update Now: iOS 18.3 and macOS Sequoia 15.3 Include 20+ Security Updates

Along with new features, the iOS 18.3, iPadOS 18.3, and macOS Sequoia 15.3 updates that Apple released today include multiple security fixes, including a fix for vulnerability that may have been actively exploited on some devices.

bug security vulnerability issue fix larry
According to Apple's security support document, there was a CoreMedia bug that could be used to elevate privileges. Apple says that it is aware of a report that the bug could have been actively exploited against versions of iOS before iOS 17.2. Apple fixed the issue with improved memory management.

Apple also addressed over 20 other vulnerabilities. One could allow an attacker with physical access to an unlocked device to access the Photos app even when an iPhone is locked, and there were several issues with AirPlay that could allow attackers to execute code or crash apps.

Two kernel vulnerabilities could let malicious apps gain kernel privileges, and there were a handful of WebKit fixes for Safari.

Because of the number of security issues fixed in the update, it is a good idea to update to the new software right away.

watchOS 11.3 and tvOS 18.3 also have a number of security fixes, so those updates should be installed as well. If you have macOS Sonoma or Ventura, Apple has released macOS 14.7.3 and macOS Ventura 13.7.3 with security improvements.

Related Roundups: iOS 18, iPadOS 18, macOS Sequoia
Related Forums: iOS 18, iPadOS 18, macOS Sequoia

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Top Rated Comments

mtrm Avatar
9 weeks ago

"One could allow an attacker with physical access to an unlocked device to access the Photos ('https://www.macrumors.com/guide/photos/') app even when an iPhone ('https://www.macrumors.com/guide/iphone/') is locked"

How does this work?
Was wondering the same thing can’t understand how a phone is locked and unlocked at the same time. Schrödinger iPhone maybe?!?
Score: 11 Votes (Like | Disagree)
jz0309 Avatar
9 weeks ago
Thank You. That is indeed a good reason to update!
Score: 10 Votes (Like | Disagree)
bbeagle Avatar
9 weeks ago

"One could allow an attacker with physical access to an unlocked device to access the Photos ('https://www.macrumors.com/guide/photos/') app even when an iPhone ('https://www.macrumors.com/guide/iphone/') is locked"

How does this work?
A phone can be locked or unlocked. An APP can be locked or unlocked (for example - screen time says you've used that app too much, or parental restrictions)

This is the actual quote, not the modified quote written above by a few users:
Impact: An attacker with physical access to an unlocked device may be able to access Photos while the app is locked
Score: 8 Votes (Like | Disagree)
manuelf Avatar
9 weeks ago
M4 Macs still struggling with 5K2K monitors? Yep. But don’t worry, Apple added Genmojis so you can at least send a cartoon version of yourself crying about it.
Score: 8 Votes (Like | Disagree)
BigBlur Avatar
9 weeks ago
Whatever happened to Rapid Security Responses ('https://support.apple.com/en-us/102657')? We've only seen a couple of them shortly after its debut way back in July 2023. There haven't been any RSRs since iOS/iPadOS 16.5.1 and macOS 13.4.1.
Score: 7 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Daalseth Avatar
9 weeks ago
Normally I update as soon as an update is available, just for the security updates. But you know, this time Apple Intelligence will download all of its cruft and enable by default. I’m hesitating until I find a way to not just shut it off, but empty the trash as well.
Score: 5 Votes (Like | Disagree)