Apple has issued an emergency iOS update to fix a major security flaw that made it easier for iPhones to be jailbroken and exploited by hackers.
The flaw was initially fixed back in May, but when Apple released its iOS 12.4 update in July, it unintentionally opened it up again.
The flaw makes it easier for up-to-date iPhones to be jailbroken, meaning users can modify their devices and install apps that haven't been approved by Apple.
It could also be exploited by hackers to trick iPhone users into installing malicious apps that hijack their devices.
The flaw was thought to have been closed for good, but last week it emerged that the unc0ver jailbreak tool was able to unlock updated iPhones by once again exploiting the flaw.
Apple has responded quickly by issuing another update - iOS 12.4.1 - to close the flaw.
"iOS 12.4.1 provides important security and stability updates, and is recommended for all users," Apple states.
In its patch notes, Apple notes that "a malicious application may be able to execute arbitrary code with system privileges".
The company thanked Ned Williamson from Google's Project Zero team, who initially reported the flaw back in March, as well as pwn20wnd, the developer of the unc0ver tool.
If you're not planning to deliberately jailbreak your iPhone, you should update your software to iOS 12.4.1 now.
How to update your iPhone
- Go to the Settings app
- Tap "General"
- Tap "Software Update"
- Tap "Download and Install"
- Enter your passcode
- Once the iOS 12.4.1 update is downloaded, an alert will pop up giving you the option to install now or later
- Installing the update will automatically restart your iPhone
