Apple has released a software update to prevent “zero-click” spyware from infecting iPhones and iPads.
The issue which allows hackers to access devices via the iMessage service even if users do not click on a link or file was discovered by independent researchers.
According to the researchers, the issue was an impact on all the technology giant’s operating systems.
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The security update was released in response to a “maliciously crafted” PDF file, according to Apple.
According to researcher Bill Marczak, the Citizen Lab at the University of Toronto had previously discovered zero-click malware, but “this is the first one where the exploit has been captured so we can work out how it works,”
All key Apple devices, including iPhones, Macs, and Apple Watches, were affected by the previously undiscovered vulnerability, according to the researchers.
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The security flaw was also used to install spyware on the iPhone of a Saudi activist, according to Citizen Lab, which had high confidence that the attack was carried out by the Israeli hacker-for-hire outfit NSO Group.
According to a report by Reuters, NSO did not confirm or deny that it was behind the spyware, stating that it would “continue to provide intelligence and law enforcement agencies around the world with life-saving technologies to fight terror and crime”.
After learning of a report that the bug “may have been actively exploited,” Apple deployed the iOS 14.8 and iPadOS 14.8 software updates, according to a blog post by Apple
The news came as the tech company was preparing to reveal new devices at its annual launch event on Tuesday.
Apple is likely to announce new iPhones, as well as improvements to its AirPods and Apple Watch.
