Apple issues urgent alert to 1 billion iPhone users over critical privacy threat — here's what you need to do

Apple has issued a stark warning to iPhone and iPad users worldwide, urging them to update their devices immediately. The company says a critical security flaw could allow hackers to take control of affected devices through malicious websites. With more than a billion users potentially at risk, Apple says one simple step could prevent serious privacy breaches.


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What is the critical threat Apple is warning about?

Apple confirmed that two serious software flaws were discovered in WebKit, the browser engine that powers Safari and all browsers on iOS and iPadOS. According to the company, these vulnerabilities could allow hackers to take control of a device or secretly run malicious code by luring users to compromised websites, as per a report by The US Sun.

Once exploited, attackers may be able to steal sensitive information such as passwords, payment details, or other private data. Apple described the situation as an “extremely sophisticated attack” targeting specific individuals, though it did not reveal who those individuals were or the motive behind the hacking attempt.


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“For our customers’ protection, Apple doesn’t disclose, discuss, or confirm security issues until an investigation has occurred and patches or releases are available,” the company said.

Which iPhones and iPads are most at risk?

Apple outlined a wide list of affected devices. The most vulnerable models include the iPhone 11 and later, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (third generation and later), and the iPad Pro 11-inch (first generation and later).

Other at-risk devices include the iPad Air (third generation and later), the iPad (eighth generation and later), and the iPad mini (fifth generation and later). Because WebKit powers all browsers on these devices, the risk is not limited to Safari alone, as per a report by The US Sun.


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Why are these flaws especially dangerous?

The vulnerabilities are classified as zero-day flaws, meaning they were unknowingly built into the software and could be exploited before Apple had a chance to fix them. Cybersecurity expert Kurt Knutsson noted that Apple has already patched seven zero-day vulnerabilities in 2025 alone.

Zero-day attacks are particularly dangerous because users often have no warning and no immediate defense unless they update their software, as per a report by The US Sun.

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How can users protect their devices right now?

Apple is urging users to install iOS 26.2 or iPadOS 26.2 immediately. Those with automatic updates enabled may already be protected, but anyone without auto-updates should manually download the update through their device settings.

Knutsson also stressed the importance of avoiding suspicious links. Even links sent by people you know can be dangerous if they lead to malicious web addresses. He advised users to only click on links they are expecting or to manually type in a website address if something feels off, as per a report by The US Sun.


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With outdated software leaving devices exposed, Apple’s message is clear: update now, or risk having your personal information compromised.

FAQs

What update should iPhone users install?
Apple recommends updating to iOS 26.2 or iPadOS 26.2 immediately.

How are hackers exploiting this flaw?
They can use malicious websites to steal data or run harmful code on affected devices.