There IT security of the devices we use every day is very important: not taking care of them means exposing ours device and the data within them is at constant risk. However, it happens that sometimes the failure to update a device is not the fault of the owner, but of the company that produces it.
In this sense, Jake MooreESE’s global cybersecurity consultant, the Corriere della Serahe said: “There are many old people iPhone still in circulation that no longer receive updates with respect to security patches. Once the vulnerability is found, it can be quickly exploited by attackers and directed against anyone with unpatched devices. People who use unpatched iPhones under warranty, although it’s frustrating, should consider replacing them with a newer, more secure device“.
This statement, understandably, has sent into alarm consumers, it is therefore appropriate to explain what the expert meant.
How updates work on smartphones
To understand Moore’s statement, it is essential to explain what is meant by “update”. In fact, this term does not only identify a concept, but at least two. The first type affects i operating systems that animate the devices. For example, on the iPhone there is currently – if the device is updated correctly – iOS 17.5, and the next version will arrive soon. This first type of update generally concerns the graphic design of the software and, more generally, its operational functions.
There is then a second type of update, similar to the first but potentially much more important due to the function it performs. It’s a type of update which is used to install the new ones security patchesi.e. updates aimed at correcting the vulnerability.
What devices are at risk: iPhone but not only
These two types of updates should not be confused, as they often do not go hand in hand. In fact, it happens that a device – be it a smartphone or a PC – is periodically equipped with a more attractive graphic design, but the security patches are not updated, thus making it exposed to risks.
Two of the latest popular devices that have to do without updating security patches are theiPhone 6 el’iPhone 6s (and earlier), still very widespread today. Furthermore, this problem particularly affects the world of Android which, compared to Apple, is populated with numerous medium-low range devices that end up being “left to themselves” (at least as far as patch updating is concerned) much earlier than those of the Cupertino company.
Either way, Moore’s warning is a great way to bring attention to an often-used topic neglectedor
that of cybersecurity on our smartphones. Now, perhaps, worried consumers will be more encouraged to check that their devices are updated correctly and, consequently, safe.