Apple's iOS 10.2.1 update for iPhone and iPad devices has been released Jan. 23. Its description in the Settings section sounds tame, as it promises bug fixes and security improvements.
The details, however, revealed that it is not merely a routine security patch but one that could prove critical to the overall security of your device. In short, you should download it as soon as you can.
Improved iOS Security
The 10.2.1 update's description posted in a dedicated Apple page outlined all the changes and improvements made. Most importantly, it outlined numerous vulnerabilities and how the update is able to address them.
For example, there is a malicious application for iOS devices that can execute an arbitrary code with accompanying kernel privileges. It has been addressed by tweaking the iOS's memory management capability.
According to JP Taggart, a security researcher for Malwarebytes, this particular fix is crucial due to the severity of the problem.
"It can add files, delete files, or execute any actions," Taggart told Wired. "Want to record conversations and forward them to someone else? It can do that. Want to install additional malicious software? It can do that. Want to uninstall programs on the affected phone? It can do that. Want to hide these actions, programs and files from the user? It can do that too."
Fixing Arbitrary Code Executions
Apple has also solved the problem posed by websites that can lead to arbitrary code execution. While Apple did not explain the exact nature of the problem being addressed, this could cover the way an iMessage text can send your iPhone crashing and that the only way to fix it is to visit a URL that the purported author of the hack has set up himself.
This seems to include the arbitrary execution of code via web content since it can trigger an automated process that restores iMessage to its previous working condition. It does not take an imaginative mind to conclude that the reverse could also be achieved: crashing or the introduction of a malware instead of a fix.
iOS 10.2 Bugs Too
There are some sources who claim that the update may also fix the bugs that iOS 10.2 has caused. This previous build has introduced a number of new features and contents such as wallpapers, emojis, Messages effects, apps, and widgets.
Forbes's Amit Chowdhry pointed out that the changes have led to issues such as the battery drainage problem and that the patch is likely going to fix them.
Affected users were previously left to fend for their devices themselves such as how some have taken to downgrading from iOS 10.2 to 10.1 or 10.1.1.
iOS 10.2.1 also comes with a diagnostic capability, which purportedly helps Apple track down bugs and squash them accordingly.
To update your devices, simply head to the Settings menu. Tap Software Update in the General section and you will be good to go. Users should remember that it is only rolling out for iPhone 5 and later, 4th-generation iPads and later as well as the 6th-generation iPod touch and later.
