Apple Security Vulnerabilities Put Indian Users at Risk: CERT-In Urges Immediate Updates

Apple users in India are being urged to install new security updates after a high-severity CERT-In alert. The national cyber agency has warned that serious flaws in iPhones, iPads, Macs and other devices could let attackers access data, run harmful code, or interrupt normal use if systems stay unpatched.

The advisory, published by the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team on March 26, 2026, explains that several Apple operating systems and apps contain security weaknesses. These weaknesses may enable remote attackers to bypass protections, steal sensitive information, spread malware, or even gain control of affected devices if users delay software updates.

CERT-In Apple Security Vulnerabilities: Devices and Software Versions at Risk

CERT-In lists multiple Apple platforms as vulnerable, including iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, tvOS, visionOS, Safari and Xcode. Any device running older software is exposed, which covers iPhones, iPads, Macs, Apple Watches and newer products like Vision Pro. Users who have not updated for some time face the highest risk from these flaws.

The advisory highlights that many of these weaknesses allow remote code execution, privilege escalation and system crashes. In simple terms, a hacker could exploit bugs to run commands on a device, gain deeper system access, or make the device unstable. The risks include data leaks, unauthorised tracking, and disruption of normal services.

The affected Apple software versions mentioned by CERT-In are detailed below. Any version earlier than those listed needs an urgent update to lower the risk of compromise. Users should compare their current software versions with this list before assuming their devices are safe.

How to Install Crucial Updates

CERT-In states that Apple has already issued patches for these security problems, and installing them is the main protective step. Users are advised to update every Apple device they own, rather than focusing only on their primary phone or computer, to avoid leaving any weak points open.

Updating is handled through built-in system menus. On iPhones and iPads, users should open “Settings”, select “General”, then tap “Software Update”. On Macs, updates appear under “System Settings”, then “General”, followed by “Software Update”. Apple Watch owners must use the Watch app on iPhone to check for new versions.

For devices like Apple TV, Vision Pro and others, users should go into the relevant system settings and look for software update options. Installing the latest available version closes the known vulnerabilities documented in the March 26, 2026 CERT-In advisory and lowers the chance of successful remote attacks.

Extra safety Steps for Users

Alongside installing updates, CERT-In recommends several basic cyber hygiene practices. Users are urged not to click unfamiliar links, especially from random messages or emails. Downloading files from unknown sources should be avoided, and apps should be installed only from official app stores or other trusted platforms.

The agency also advises frequent backups of important files to cloud services or external drives. Regular backups help users restore data if a device is damaged, infected or wiped during a cyber incident. With the alert marked as high severity, CERT-In stresses that timely updates and careful online behaviour are essential for Apple users across India.