Apple has just rolled out the iOS 18.4.1 Security Update, and it’s more than just routine maintenance—it’s a critical security patch. If you own an iPhone, update your device immediately to stay protected. This emergency update addresses two actively exploited zero-day vulnerabilities, potentially putting user data at serious risk.
Apple doesn’t usually reveal full technical details immediately after releasing a security patch. This is to prevent malicious actors from exploiting the vulnerabilities before users update. However, what we do know is enough to raise alarm bells.
CoreAudio Vulnerability – CVE-2025-31200
The first flaw lies within the CoreAudio framework. Identified as CVE-2025-31200, this issue can allow remote code execution through a malicious audio stream. Apple, along with Google’s Threat Analysis Group, confirmed that this exploit has been used in real-world attacks targeting specific individuals.
“This vulnerability may have been used in extremely sophisticated attacks against targeted users.”, Apple warns.
RPAC Vulnerability – CVE-2025-31201
The second issue involves RPAC, tracked as CVE-2025-31201. It gives attackers with read/write access the ability to bypass Pointer Authentication—a key iOS defense mechanism. Like the first bug, Apple also believes attackers have already exploited this bug in highly targeted scenarios.
What Zero-Day Threats Are and Why They’re Serious
Zero-day flaws are particularly dangerous because they are exploited before the developer becomes aware and can release a patch. Security experts like Sylvain Cortes from Hackuity stress that these types of threats demand immediate action, especially when being used in live attacks.
Real-World Attacks Involving Spyware
Cybersecurity researcher Paul Ducklin referred to the CoreAudio flaw as the “Podcast of Death” in a post on X (formerly Twitter). He explained that malicious audio files could completely compromise an iPhone—allowing spyware to access messages, encrypted apps like WhatsApp, and even your device screen.
Although these attacks seem highly targeted, hackers could target any user once the exploit details become public.
“For enterprise environments and individuals alike, installing iOS 18.4.1 is not just recommended—it’s essential,” says Cortes.
A similar zero-day threat has hit Chrome users. Check out our full breakdown of the Google Chrome Emergency Update.
How to Update Your iPhone.
- Go to Settings.
- General
- Software Upate
and install iOS 18.4.1 right away.
Other Apple Devices Also Receive Security Fixes
In addition to iOS 18.4.1, Apple also rolled out patches for:
- iPadOS 18.4.1
- macOS Sequoia 15.4.1
- tvOS 18.4.1
- visionOS 2.4.1
- watchOS 11.4
- Safari 18.4
- Xcode 16.3
These updates patch the same vulnerabilities across Apple’s ecosystem. However, Apple confirmed that attackers directly targeted only iPhones in the known attacks.
If you’re wondering whether your digital tools are safe or outdated, read: Elon Musk’s xAI Launches Grok 3.
Additional Bug Fixes in iOS 18.4.1
Beyond the major security patches, this update also resolves several minor issues, including a fix for a bug that prevented wireless CarPlay from working in certain vehicles.
Supported Devices for iOS 18.4.1 Security Update
The following devices support the latest release:
- iPhone XS and newer
- iPad Pro 13-inch and 13.9-inch (3rd gen+)
- iPad Pro 11-inch (1st gen+)
- iPad Air (3rd gen+)
- iPad (7th gen+)
- iPad mini (5th gen+)
In other news on digital safety and regulation, explore how UK schools are taking action: Over 90% of UK Schools Enforce Mobile Phone Bans.
Final Thoughts – Update Now for Your Safety
Security researcher Sean Wright advises that while there’s no need to panic, updating immediately is the smart move. Spyware and zero-day vulnerabilities may seem like concerns for high-profile individuals, but once details go public, any user could be a target.
Why This Matters for You
Even if you think you’re not a target, exploits can spread quickly. Just like how Google Chrome’s emergency update patched a similar zero-day flaw, staying ahead of threats is crucial.
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