Apple users are urged to promptly update all their devices due to a recent security alert. The warning follows the discovery of vulnerabilities in Apple’s AirPlay technology by security experts at Oligo, potentially enabling hackers to infect phones, tablets, and laptops with harmful malware. Dubbed “AirBorne,” the attack poses significant risks that should not be overlooked.
According to Oligo Security researchers, the vulnerabilities and attack vectors, known as “AirBorne,” facilitate wireless network or peer-to-peer connection-based attacks, granting attackers complete device control for further exploitation.
Apple’s AirPlay system, designed for wirelessly streaming content to speakers and TVs via Wi-Fi, inadvertently allows cybercriminals to compromise devices. Although Apple has since patched all identified bugs, it is crucial for users to ensure their iPhones, iPads, and MacBooks are running the latest software updates.
Kaspersky has highlighted the severity of the security flaws in Apple AirPlay, collectively termed “AirBorne,” which can be exploited individually or in combination to launch wireless attacks on various AirPlay-enabled hardware.
The primary defense against AirBorne attacks is to update all AirPlay-enabled devices promptly. Users can verify their software status by accessing Settings, selecting General, and checking Software Update. By staying up to date with Apple’s latest updates, users can safeguard their devices from potential threats. Notably, the risk of a hack occurring is minimal unless the cybercriminal is on the same Wi-Fi network as the user, making consumer impact unlikely.
Users should exercise caution when using public Wi-Fi networks, as attackers must be on the same network as the victim to execute an AirBorne attack. To mitigate risks, users can disable AirPlay receivers when not in use, restrict AirPlay access, and configure settings to limit AirPlay to the “Current User.”
By taking these precautions and ensuring devices are updated, Apple users can protect themselves against potential AirBorne threats.