Don't get hacked! Critical update for iPhone users before upgrading to iOS 17.5 (zero-day threats!)

(Image credit: Future)

Heads up, Apple users! With iOS 17.5 on the horizon, it's crucial to download iOS 17.4.1 right now. Why? This update tackles some nasty zero-day vulnerabilities – security weaknesses hackers can exploit before anyone even knows they exist.

Think of it like patching a hole in your digital life jacket. You might not see a leak, but it could sink you fast. That's why these updates are so important.

How to get it

Here's the good news: downloading the update is simple. Just head over to Settings > General > Software Update and tap "Update Now." Apple itself says this update is "recommended for all users," and for good reason.

Why this update matters

The update tackles two specific issues that could allow attackers to run wild on your device, potentially stealing your data or worse. While Apple hasn't confirmed these vulnerabilities are actively being exploited, it's better to be safe than sorry, right?

The critical security update, iOS 17.4.1, is available for most devices (XS and later). This update tackles a sneaky vulnerability discovered by Nick Galloway of Google's Project Zero, which Apple confirmed. It involved a potential issue where processing an image could allow malicious code to run on your device. Download the update (Settings > General > Software Update) to keep your data safe!

Remember, don't wait for iOS 17.5. Download iOS 17.4.1 now and keep your iPhone.

For more news, rumors, and updates on everything Apple-related, and all things tech, follow Laptop Mag on X, Facebook, and Flipboard for the latest word as it arrives.

Mark has spent 20 years headlining comedy shows around the country and made appearances on ABC, MTV, Comedy Central, Howard Stern, Food Network, and Sirius XM Radio. He has written about every topic imaginable, from dating, family, politics, social issues, and tech. He wrote his first tech articles for the now-defunct Dads On Tech 10 years ago, and his passion for combining humor and tech has grown under the tutelage of the Laptop Mag team. His penchant for tearing things down and rebuilding them did not make Mark popular at home, however, when he got his hands on the legendary Commodore 64, his passion for all things tech deepened. These days, when he is not filming, editing footage, tinkering with cameras and laptops, or on stage, he can be found at his desk snacking, writing about everything tech, new jokes, or scripts he dreams of filming.