iPhone Security Warning India: CERT-In Urges Urgent iOS Update

iPhone Security Warning in India: CERT-In Flags High-Risk iOS Vulnerabilities

The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) has issued a critical iPhone security warning in India, alerting users to multiple high-severity vulnerabilities in Apple’s iOS and iPadOS systems. These flaws could enable attackers to steal sensitive information, execute harmful code, or crash devices entirely.

The advisory targets users of iPhones and iPads running outdated software. Specifically, iPhones operating on versions earlier than iOS 18.3 and iPads using iPadOS below 17.7.3 or 18.3—depending on the model—are at risk. Affected models include the iPhone XS and newer, and iPads from the 6th generation onwards, including iPad Pro (2nd gen and later), iPad Air (3rd gen and up), and iPad mini (5th gen and newer).

CERT-In reports that attackers are already exploiting some of these vulnerabilities in ongoing cyberattacks, making it vital for users to update immediately. Exploits could bypass Apple’s security layers, allowing attackers to install malicious apps, monitor user activity, or disrupt device functionality.

Apple has responded by rolling out critical security patches. The tech giant is urging all users to upgrade to the latest iOS and iPadOS versions without delay. Experts advise users to avoid downloading apps from unofficial sources and stay alert to unusual behavior like battery drain or app crashes that may signal a breach.

iPhone Sales Rise Despite Security Concerns

While security warnings raise concerns, Apple’s momentum in India remains strong. Market analysts report a 5.5% decline in India’s overall smartphone shipments in Q1 2025, dropping to 32 million units due to weak demand and surplus inventory.

Yet, Apple defied the trend. The company recorded a 23% year-on-year surge in shipments, leading the top five smartphone brands. In Q1 2025 alone, Apple shipped a record three million iPhones in India. The iPhone 16 emerged as a customer favorite, accounting for 4% of all smartphones sold in the country during the quarter.